Orissa High Court Intensifies Scrutiny on Hospital Fire Safety After Deadly Blaze
The Orissa High Court has taken decisive action in response to the tragic fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, which claimed the lives of twelve patients. On Thursday, a two-judge bench comprising Justices K R Mohapatra and V Narasingh issued a series of directives aimed at preventing such disasters in the future.
Court Directs Government to Submit Comprehensive Fire Safety Records
The bench specifically ordered the state government to place on record detailed information regarding fire safety measures implemented in all hospitals equipped with trauma care Intensive Care Unit (ICU) facilities. This move comes as a direct consequence of the March 16 inferno that devastated the trauma care ICU at SCB, one of Odisha's largest referral hospitals.
"The court has scheduled a crucial hearing for April 9, where the Director General of Fire Services has been summoned to appear either virtually or in person," the order stated. The official's presence is required to provide necessary technical assistance for the effective adjudication of fire safety compliance issues across healthcare institutions.
Focus on Patient Care Continuity and Systemic Improvements
During the proceedings, SCB superintendent Dr. Jyotish Chandra Choudhury, appearing via video link, informed the court about ongoing efforts to restore the damaged trauma care ICU. The court has also mandated the appearance of the Health and Family Welfare Secretary on April 9 to provide updates on the restoration progress and alternative arrangements made for trauma patients.
The bench emphasized that the non-functioning of SCB's dedicated trauma ICU must not result in the denial of critical care to patients. Hospital authorities have been directed to ensure uninterrupted treatment for all patients requiring intensive care, highlighting the court's patient-centric approach.
Historical Context and Previous Court Interventions
The court noted with concern that despite specific directions issued on July 16, 2024, following an earlier fire incident at the same hospital, significant gaps in fire preparedness persist. In that previous order, the court had disposed of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) after noting the government's affidavit from July 12, 2024, which outlined steps for installing firefighting systems across all buildings of SCB Medical College Hospital.
The July 2024 order had stated: "Considering the averments from the government... we dispose of the present writ application with an observation that the authorities shall make best endeavor to ensure that the work of installation of fire fighting system in the hospital, which is of immense public importance, is completed within the time as stipulated under the contract/work orders."
Ongoing Judicial Monitoring and Future Proceedings
By posting the matter for further hearing on April 9, the bench has made it clear that it will maintain close oversight of compliance with fire safety norms and systemic improvements in healthcare facilities throughout Odisha. This judicial monitoring represents a significant escalation in ensuring accountability and preventing future tragedies.
The court's intervention underscores the critical importance of robust fire safety protocols in medical institutions, particularly in high-risk areas like trauma care ICUs where patients are most vulnerable. The upcoming April 9 hearing is expected to be a pivotal moment in assessing the state's commitment to hospital safety reforms.
