SCB Medical College Fire: 10 patients died in a massive fire in the trauma care department early on Monday, while 7 people are said to be injured. In the initial investigation, short circuit in the AC or medical equipment of the ICU is being considered as the possible cause of the fire.
Odisha Hospital Fire: A heart-wrenching incident came to light in the early hours of Monday from Cuttack, Odisha. At least 10 patients died in a massive fire at SCB Medical College and Hospital, while many others are said to be injured. According to officials, the fire broke out in the trauma care department of the hospital and within minutes, thick smoke spread in the ICU and surrounding wards, causing chaos among the patients and staff.
Fire broke out in the trauma ward at 3 pm
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that the fire broke out on the first floor of the trauma care unit at around 3 am. At that time, about 23 patients were admitted in the ward and were undergoing treatment. According to initial information, seven patients died on the spot after the fire. Later, three more patients died due to suffocation due to smoke. Within minutes, the ICU and trauma ward were filled with smoke, making rescue operations very difficult.
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Many patients and staff were evacuated safely
The hospital administration and fire brigade teams immediately started the rescue operation. The fire was brought under control after several hours of effort with the help of three fire engines. Dozens of patients were immediately shifted to another ward so that they could continue treatment on life support. At least seven people have been injured in this accident, including five patients and two hospital employees.
Fear of short circuit, investigation ordered
In the preliminary investigation, it is believed that the fire may have started due to a short circuit in the air conditioning system of the ICU or some medical equipment. However, officials have clarified that a high-level inquiry has been ordered to find out the real cause of the incident. The investigation will also see whether there was any lapse in fire safety rules.
Chief Minister visited, announced compensation
After the incident, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi immediately reached the hospital and took stock of the situation. He met the families of the deceased and inquired about the condition of the injured. The government has announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh to the family of each patient who lost his life in this accident.
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SCB is one of the largest hospitals in Eastern India.
SCB Medical College and Hospital, established in the year 1944, is one of the oldest and largest government medical institutions in Eastern India. This hospital is considered to be the largest referral center for serious patients coming from Odisha as well as surrounding states.