Odisha Hospitals Fail Fire Safety Test: Only 7% Certified

Bhubaneswar: A startling revelation has emerged regarding fire safety compliance in Odisha’s healthcare sector.

Out of 241 government hospitals mandated to obtain Fire Safety Certificates under the Odisha Fire Safety Rules, 2017, only 17 currently hold valid certification — a mere 7.05%.

The requirement applies to medical colleges, district headquarters hospitals, sub‑divisional hospitals, and community health centres.

In Balasore district alone, of 65 hospitals and health facilities, only 10 have secured certificates.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik acknowledged the gap and assured that corrective measures are underway.

Hospitals lacking certification have been advised to apply immediately, with the government pledging to enforce compliance and rectify deficiencies.

This revelation underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement of fire safety norms to safeguard patients and healthcare workers across the state.