Major Fire at SCB Medical College Hospital in Cuttack Claims 10 Lives
A catastrophic fire erupted at the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, in the early hours of Monday, resulting in the tragic deaths of 10 patients. The blaze, which broke out between 2:30 AM and 3:00 AM, engulfed the Trauma Care Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where critically ill individuals were receiving treatment.
Rescue Efforts and Injuries
During the frantic rescue operations, 11 hospital staff members sustained burn injuries while attempting to evacuate patients to safety. Fire service personnel, along with hospital staff, police, and patients' attendants, worked tirelessly to shift 23 patients from the affected ICU to other departments within the hospital. This state-run medical facility is a key healthcare institution in Odisha, and the incident has sent shockwaves through the community.
Official Response and Investigation
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accompanied by Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, visited the hospital promptly after receiving news of the fire. They reviewed the situation and met with patients undergoing treatment. Speaking to the media, Chief Minister Majhi attributed the fire to a suspected short circuit, which also impacted adjoining ICUs and wards.
"A total of 23 patients have been shifted to other departments. Seven serious patients died while shifting to other ICUs and wards, while another three persons died later," Majhi stated. He emphasized that directives have been issued for the proper treatment of the injured patients.
Compensation Announced
In response to the tragedy, the Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 25 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased person. This gesture aims to provide some relief to the grieving families affected by this devastating incident.
Impact and Aftermath
The fire has raised serious concerns about safety protocols in government-run hospitals, particularly in critical care units like ICUs. Authorities are likely to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause and prevent such occurrences in the future. The community and healthcare workers are mourning the loss of lives while grappling with the aftermath of this horrific event.
