Deadly India Hospital Fire: 10 Patients Killed in ICU Blaze Amid Safety Concerns

India, March 18, 2026 — At least 10 patients have died following a devastating fire that broke out inside the intensive care unit (ICU) of a government-run hospital in eastern India, authorities confirmed.

The incident occurred at the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Odisha’s Cuttack district during the early hours of Monday, sparking panic among patients, medical staff, and visitors. According to officials, the fire started in the trauma care ICU, where critically ill patients were undergoing treatment at the time.

Initial reports indicate that the blaze may have been caused by an electrical short circuit, although a full investigation is still underway to determine the exact cause.

Authorities said that most of the victims were patients receiving intensive care, making evacuation efforts extremely challenging. Several patients were unable to escape due to their critical conditions, while others succumbed to injuries during rescue attempts.

Emergency teams, including firefighters and hospital staff, rushed to the scene to contain the fire and evacuate patients. Around 23 patients were being treated in the affected unit, with survivors quickly moved to other wards for safety.

In addition to the fatalities, multiple hospital staff members sustained injuries, including burns and smoke inhalation, while attempting to rescue patients trapped inside the ICU.

Local authorities have launched a high-level investigation into the incident, focusing on the cause of the fire and whether safety protocols were properly followed. Officials are examining electrical systems, emergency response procedures, and hospital safety compliance.

India’s leadership has expressed condolences to the victims’ families, while state authorities have announced compensation for those affected by the tragedy. The incident has also prompted calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety measures in hospitals nationwide.

This latest incident highlights ongoing concerns about fire safety standards in Indian healthcare facilities, where overcrowding, outdated infrastructure, and inadequate safety systems have been cited in previous tragedies.

Experts warn that hospitals — particularly ICUs — are high-risk environments due to the presence of oxygen systems, electrical equipment, and critically ill patients who cannot evacuate quickly.

As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of strict safety regulations, proper maintenance, and emergency preparedness in healthcare institutions. Authorities are expected to release further findings in the coming days as families mourn the loss of their loved ones.