Hospital ICU fire: 10 patients dead, 11 staff members injured

Reports indicate that at least 10 individuals have lost their lives, and 11 others were injured due to a blaze at an Indian hospital.

The unfortunate event transpired on Monday (March 16), around 2:30am local time, with the blaze beginning in the trauma ICU at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha state, as stated by the BBC, Reuters and The Hindu.

State Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi informed journalists that the deceased were patients, noting that 11 hospital employees, including security personnel who attempted to save patients, are currently receiving treatment for burns, according to the BBC.

“A total of 23 patients, who were being treated on the trauma care’s first floor, have been relocated," the Chief Minister, who went to the hospital following the incident, conveyed, as reported by The Hindu.

Beside the trauma section, “nearby wards faced impact too.”

“During the relocation process, seven patients passed away due to their injuries. Later on, three more patients succumbed while receiving ICU treatment,” he continued.

Majhi shared with the press that families of the deceased will be given Rs. 25 lakh each (approx. $27,000), as per The Hindu.

Majhi mentioned his visit to the hospital in the morning “and directed the authorities to ensure all types of government support was available to those affected. All relevant departments and teams are collaborating efficiently and with dedication."