10 Patients Die After Blaze Breaks Out in Trauma Care Unit of Cuttack Hospital

Odisha: A massive fire that broke out in the trauma care department of SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, on Monday morning shook the entire health system. At least 10 patients died, while several staff members sustained burn injuries. All these patients were admitted to Trauma Care ICU in critical condition. After the fire, there was chaos in the hospital, patients had to be hastily shifted to other wards. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi himself reached the spot and took stock of the situation.

How did the fire start and what was the scene inside the hospital?

Between 2:30 and 3 am, a sudden fire broke out in the Trauma Care ICU. According to initial reports, a short circuit caused the fire, which spread rapidly and filled with poisonous smoke. This proved to be the second attack of death for the critical patients admitted in ICU. The smoke was so dense that breathing became difficult. Staff and fire brigade teams risked their lives and started the rescue, but many patients got trapped in the smoke and fire. 23 patients were in the ICU and surrounding wards – 7 of them died there, the remaining 3 did not survive while being shifted during the rescue.

How many people were injured and what is their condition?

At least 5 patients are seriously burnt and their condition remains critical. The team of doctors is continuously monitoring. Apart from this, 11 hospital staff members also suffered burn injuries during the rescue operation. All the injured are undergoing treatment. As a precaution, the remaining patients have been shifted to New Medicine Building and other wards so that there is no further danger.

Why did the chief minister reach the spot?

As soon as the information was received, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi immediately reached Cuttack. He visited the hospital, spoke to the injured patients and their families, and sought a detailed report of the entire incident from the authorities. He directed that the injured should get the best treatment and the investigation should be conducted with complete transparency. The CM has also announced ex-gratia of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased.

What steps did the administration and relief teams take?

Immediately after the incident, many teams of local administration, police and fire brigade became active. The fire brigade controlled the fire and evacuated the patients and staff to safe places. Now investigation has started – it will be seen whether the fire was caused by short circuit or there was some other reason. When was the fire safety audit conducted, this will also be a part of the investigation. Officials have said that the whole truth will soon be revealed.

Was there any other accident in Odisha recently?

This incident has happened at a time when a natural disaster had wreaked havoc in the state just a day earlier. Two people were killed, several were injured and houses and electric poles were damaged due to severe thunderstorm and tornado-like conditions in Mayurbhanj district. Now this hospital fire incident is raising questions on security and emergency preparedness in the state.