RismadarVoice Reporters
March 16, 2026
At least 10 critically ill patients have died following a fire outbreak at a government-run hospital in Cuttack city, Odisha State, eastern India.
Officials said the fire occurred early Monday on the first floor of the SCB Medical College and Hospital, affecting the trauma intensive care unit where patients were receiving treatment.
According to Odisha State Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, the blaze was caused by a short circuit in the ward. He noted that 23 patients were on the floor at the time, with the remaining survivors quickly evacuated to other sections of the hospital.
Authorities also confirmed that at least 11 hospital staff members sustained injuries while attempting to rescue patients during the emergency.
Reacting to the tragedy, Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi described the incident as “deeply painful” and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
He also announced financial compensation of about $2,160 for those affected.
Fire outbreaks are said to be relatively common in India, often linked to poorly maintained electrical systems, limited firefighting equipment, and weak enforcement of safety regulations.
In recent years, similar incidents have been recorded, including a hospital fire in Tamil Nadu in 2024 that claimed at least six lives, and another in Uttar Pradesh the same year that resulted in the deaths of 10 newborns.
Authorities are expected to investigate the latest incident as concerns grow over safety standards in public facilities across the country.
