Credited from: REUTERS
A devastating fire erupted around 2:30 AM at the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, leading to the death of at least 10 critically ill patients. The victims were in the trauma care ICU when the fire broke out, reportedly due to a suspected short circuit in the facility, according to Indiatimes and Reuters.
During the incident, the medical staff and security personnel undertook courageous rescue efforts, managing to relocate several patients, although some suffered injuries and smoke inhalation in the process. In total, 11 staff members required treatment for burns sustained while rescuing patients, as reported by BBC and Dawn.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed the tragic toll and announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹25 lakh (approximately $2,160) for the families of the deceased. He also ordered a judicial inquiry into the fire incident, emphasizing the need for accountability and ensuring that proper safety measures are implemented in medical facilities, according to Indiatimes and Reuters.