Ten patients died and several others were grievously injured when fire broke out in an intensive care unit of SCB Medical College Hospital, Cuttack, due to electrical short circuit in the early hours of Monday (March 16, 2026).

“A short while ago, a major fire had broken out in the ICU of the trauma care unit of SCB Medical College Hospital. Adjacent wards were also affected. As many as 23 patients undergoing treatment on the first floor of trauma care were shifted,” said Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who visited the SCB Medical College Hospital, Cuttack, soon after the incident.

“While shifting, seven patients succumbed to injuries. Subsequently, another three patients died in the ICU during treatment,” said Mr. Majhi.

“This is unfortunate and tragic incident. I pray for peace for departed soul. I have directed the Health Department to provide best of the treatment for those who have been rescued. I have announced Rs. 25 lakh each ex-gratia for the family members of the deceased,” said Odisha CM.

Hospital employees injured

As many 11 hospital employees, including private security guards who had participated in the rescue operation, also sustained injures due to fire and smoke. They have been provided treatment. Their conditions are stated to be stable.

“I had given directions to make all hospital buildings fireproof after my government came to power. I have personally issued directions to take steps to prevent fire in health institutes. My government had made budgetary provision of ₹320 core for fire prevention in 2025-26 budget. And, ₹420 core has been proposed in the current budget (2026-27) for the same,” he pointed out.

“Before our government, similar provisions had not been made. Keeping in critical aspects, we have been making efforts in the past two years. Fire prevention measures are being taken in all hospitals on a war footing. I am directing all departments to complete the fire-prevention infrastructure,” said the Odisha CM.

“I have directed the Director General of Police to personally examine the fire prevention measures in place at SCB Medical College Hospital. He will ensure fire-proof compliance,” he said.

Judicial probe

Mr. Majhi said, “I am directing a judicial probe into the incident. Immediate actions will be taken if any lapses are found in the probe.”

The Chief Minister further directed to ensure the best treatment for those who have been shifted to medicine, orthopaedic and other wards.

Leader of the Opposition Naveen Patnaik expressed deep sorrow over the fire incident at SCB Medical College. Conveying condolences to the bereaved families, he also prayed for the speedy recovery of those seriously injured and demanded the best possible medical treatment for them.

Cuttack Mayor Subash Singh said there was serious lapses in putting fire prevention apparatus in place in the SCB Medical College Hospital.