A tragic fire incident at SCB Medical College and Hospital has cast a shadow of grief across the country. Several national leaders, including the Droupadi Murmu, Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and other central leaders, have expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
The devastating fire reportedly broke out in the Trauma Care ICU of the hospital, leading to multiple casualties and injuries.
President Droupadi Murmu Expresses Deep Sorrow
President Droupadi Murmu expressed profound grief over the incident through a post on X.
In her message, the President conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured in the incident. She stated that she was deeply saddened by the tragic fire accident at the hospital.
Prime Minister Announces Financial Assistance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
The Prime Minister announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives in the incident, while ₹50,000 has been announced for those seriously injured.
PM Modi also spoke with Mohan Charan Majhi to take stock of the situation. During the conversation, he inquired about the emergency measures, evacuation efforts, and the medical treatment being provided to the affected patients.
Amit Shah Terms Incident Extremely Painful
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed grief over the tragic accident. In a post on X, he described the incident as extremely painful and extended condolences to the families who lost their loved ones.
He also acknowledged that the Odisha government is actively engaged in relief and rescue operations and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
Ten Dead in ICU Fire at SCB Medical
According to official information, at least 10 people lost their lives due to the fire in the Trauma Care ICU of SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.
Reports indicate that seven patients died inside the ICU, while three others succumbed after being rescued and shifted for treatment.
During the rescue operations, 11 hospital staff members were also seriously injured, and currently 12 people are undergoing treatment.
Chief Minister Announces ₹25 Lakh Compensation
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited the hospital to review the situation after the incident. He announced ₹25 lakh compensation for the families of each deceased victim.
The Chief Minister also met injured patients and their relatives, offering assurances that the government would provide all possible assistance and the best medical treatment.
Judicial Inquiry Ordered Into Fire Incident
The Chief Minister has ordered a high-level judicial inquiry to determine the cause of the fire. He has also directed the Director General of Fire Services to conduct a detailed investigation into the incident and review the fire safety arrangements at the hospital.
Majhi stated that strict action would be taken against anyone found responsible for negligence.
State Strengthening Fire Safety in Hospitals
The Odisha government has allocated ₹320 crore to strengthen fire safety infrastructure in hospitals across the state. Authorities said work on improving safety systems is being carried out on a war footing.
Meanwhile, patients from the affected wards were immediately shifted to safer locations to ensure uninterrupted medical care.
State in Mourning After Tragic Incident
The heartbreaking incident has sent shockwaves across the state, with grief and concern spreading among citizens.
Security arrangements have been intensified around the hospital premises while investigation teams continue to examine the cause of the fire and assess safety measures.
The tragedy has once again raised serious questions about fire safety preparedness in major healthcare institutions.