10 Patients Killed In Fire At Hospital In Cuttack

According to reports, the fire erupted around 2 am in the Intensive Care Unit on the first floor of the casualty department building, reportedly due to a suspected electrical short circuit. About 23 patients were present in the ICU and an adjoining unit at the time of the incident.

Fire Services personnel rushed to the hospital and brought the blaze under control after nearly half an hour. The exact cause of the fire is yet to be officially confirmed.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accompanied by health and family welfare minister Mukesh Mahaling, visited the hospital and reviewed the situation with officials.

Calling the incident tragic, Majhi said he had ordered a judicial inquiry into the mishap.

“It is a tragic incident. I have ordered a judicial inquiry into the mishap. Anyone found responsible will face strict action as per the findings of the probe,” he said, adding that the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit.

The Chief Minister announced an ex gratia of ₹25 lakh each for the families of those who died in the incident and assured free treatment for the injured.

He also directed the Director General of Fire Services to inspect the hospital and review fire safety measures.

Officials said at least 11 attendants and relatives of patients were injured while attempting to rescue patients during the blaze. They have been admitted to a special care unit and are reported to be stable.