Tragic Fire at Indian Hospital Trauma Centre Claims At Least 10 Lives
A devastating fire has torn through the trauma centre of a major government hospital in eastern India, resulting in the deaths of at least 10 patients. The blaze erupted in the early hours of Monday morning at the Srirama Chandra Bhanja Medical College and Hospital located in Cuttack city, within the state of Odisha.
Patients Perish During Evacuation Efforts
State Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed the tragic loss of life, stating that all those who died were patients admitted to the hospital. Officials reported that seven of the patients succumbed to their injuries while being moved to other intensive care units and wards during the chaotic evacuation. An additional three patients died later from their burns.
"A total of 23 patients have been shifted to other departments. Seven serious patients died while shifting to other ICUs and wards, while another three patients died later," Mr Majhi told reporters on Monday.
Hospital Staff Injured in Rescue Operation
In addition to the patient fatalities, 23 hospital staff members sustained injuries while courageously attempting to rescue patients from the burning trauma centre. The chief minister praised the medical staff and security personnel who "risked their lives" during the rescue operations.
"During this, they too sustained injuries, and they too are under treatment," Mr Majhi added. Five of those injured were reported to be in critical condition, though it remains unclear whether their injuries resulted directly from the fire.
Investigation and Compensation Announced
The fire broke out between 2:30 am and 3:00 am local time in the hospital wing where critically ill patients were being treated. While an electrical short circuit is suspected as the cause, authorities have not yet officially confirmed what sparked the blaze.
Multiple fire engines were dispatched to the scene and engaged in extensive rescue operations. Chief Minister Majhi has announced a compensation package of Rs 25,00,000 (approximately £20,434) for the families of each deceased victim.
A judicial probe has been launched into the incident, with Mr Majhi vowing that strict action would be taken against anyone found responsible for the tragedy.
Leadership Responds to Hospital Tragedy
Following the fire, Chief Minister Majhi visited the hospital alongside Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling to assess the situation firsthand. The state leaders met with injured patients who are currently recovering at the medical facility.
The chief minister has directed concerned officers to ensure proper treatment for all injured patients as the community grapples with this hospital tragedy that has claimed multiple lives and left many others fighting for recovery.
