Midnight blaze in ICU of SCB Medical College & Hospital sparks panic in Cuttack, claims 10 lives, injures 11 staff as Odisha CM announces ₹25 lakh compensation for victims’ families
Cuttack: In a devastating incident that has raised serious questions about hospital safety and emergency preparedness, a massive fire broke out inside the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of SCB Medical College & Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, killing 10 critically ill patients and leaving several hospital staff members injured.
The tragic blaze reportedly erupted between 2:30 am and 3:00 am in the trauma care department’s ICU, where patients with severe injuries were undergoing treatment. Initial reports suggest that a suspected short circuit may have triggered the deadly fire, though authorities have ordered a detailed investigation.
Midnight Chaos Inside ICU
According to hospital officials, the ICU housed patients who were already in critical condition. As the fire rapidly spread through the unit, chaos erupted inside the ward as doctors, nurses and other staff rushed to evacuate patients.
Despite immediate rescue efforts, 10 patients lost their lives in the tragic incident. Several hospital staff members who attempted to rescue patients from the burning ICU sustained injuries.
Emergency response teams, including fire brigade personnel, quickly reached the hospital and managed to bring the flames under control. Meanwhile, the hospital administration began shifting patients to safer areas to prevent further casualties.
Mass Evacuation and Casualties During Transfer
Authorities confirmed that 23 patients were moved from the affected ICU to other wards of the hospital during the rescue operation. However, the condition of several patients deteriorated during the emergency transfer.
Seven patients reportedly died during the evacuation process, while three others succumbed to injuries later, raising the total death toll to ten.
Hospital sources stated that the injured staff members are currently receiving treatment, and their condition is said to be stable.
CM Announces Compensation, Orders Inquiry
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling rushed to the hospital following the tragedy and reviewed the situation with officials and hospital authorities.
“The government stands with the families of the victims in this hour of grief. Proper treatment will be ensured for all injured,” the Chief Minister stated during his visit.
The Odisha government has announced Rs. 25 lakh compensation for the families of each deceased patient. The Chief Minister has also directed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to those injured in the incident.
Officials said that a comprehensive probe will determine the exact cause of the fire and assess whether any safety lapses contributed to the disaster.
