Bhubaneswar, 16 March (H.S.): A major fire broke out in the Trauma Care Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Emergency Department at SCB Medical College and Hospital in the early hours of Monday, resulting in the death of at least 10 patients and leaving several others critically injured. According to officials , the fire is suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit and erupted around 2:30 a.m. on the first floor of the Emergency Department. The incident triggered panic among patients and hospital staff as smoke quickly spread within the ICU.

Upon receiving the alert, the hospital’s fire safety team and local fire brigade personnel responded immediately. Three fire tenders were deployed to the scene to control the blaze. Emergency evacuation procedures were initiated without delay, and critically ill patients were transferred to the New Medicine ICU and other specialized units for continued treatment.

Hospital authorities and medical staff rushed to rescue patients admitted to the affected ward. Several patients in critical condition were shifted to other intensive care units within the hospital to ensure uninterrupted medical care.

While the fire has been brought under control, the exact cause remains under investigation. Authorities have launched a detailed inquiry into the incident, and further updates are awaited. Hospital officials are continuing to monitor the condition of the injured patients.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda