SCB Medical College ICU Fire in Odisha Claims 10 Lives, CM Announces ₹25 Lakh Aid
Cuttack, Odisha: A devastating fire broke out in the Trauma Care ICU of SCB Medical College and Hospital in the early hours of Monday, claiming the lives of at least ten patients.
The blaze, suspected to have been triggered by an electrical short circuit, erupted around 2:30–3:00 am when 23 patients were admitted.
Despite swift rescue efforts by firefighters, hospital staff, police, and attendants, seven patients perished inside the ICU while three others succumbed during evacuation and treatment.
Eleven hospital staff members sustained burn injuries, some critically, while attempting to save patients.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited the hospital, expressed grief, and announced an ex gratia of Rs 25 lakh for each deceased patient’s family.
Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling accompanied him. Former CM Naveen Patnaik also conveyed condolences, directing BJD leaders to assist families.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed sorrow and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
The victims identified include Ramesh Chandra Parida, Dasru Munda, Md Nyum, Gouranga Chandra Barik, Sk Abdul Satar, Madhusudan Dalai, Krushna Chandra Biswal, Rabindra Das, Cheru Parida, and Menaka Rout.
A judicial probe is expected to ascertain the exact cause of the tragedy.
