Odisha Health Minister Orders Strict Fire Safety Compliance in Government Hospitals

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling chaired a high‑level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan, directing all government hospitals to strictly enforce fire safety protocols.

The Minister emphasised that patient safety is the government’s foremost responsibility and warned against negligence in maintaining fire‑fighting systems.

Officials were instructed to ensure that fire‑fighting equipment remains fully functional, with regular inspections and mandatory mock drills.

Hospitals must coordinate closely with the Works Department and Fire Services Department to guarantee the effective implementation of safety measures.

The meeting was attended by Health Secretary Aswathy S., Special Secretary Dr Bijay Mohapatra, senior officials, district medical officers, and heads of medical colleges.

The Minister reiterated that protecting patients and the public is non‑negotiable, urging vigilance and accountability across all health institutions.