March 16, 2026 : At least ten people lost their lives after a major fire broke out at the Trauma Care Centre of SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, in the early hours today. Around eleven hospital staff members sustained burn injuries while attempting to rescue patients.

According to officials, the fire started around 3 a.m. on the first floor of the Trauma Care department, reportedly due to a suspected short circuit.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with State Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling, reached the hospital soon after the incident and reviewed the situation. The Chief Minister confirmed that ten people have died in the tragedy and announced an ex gratia of ₹25 lakh for the next of kin of each deceased. He also directed officials to ensure proper medical treatment for those injured.

Most of the victims were patients admitted to the Trauma Care ICU. After the fire broke out, the hospital’s fire safety systems were activated and three fire tenders were deployed to control the blaze. Firefighters, hospital staff, police personnel and attendants worked together to evacuate patients and shift them to safer areas. Critically ill patients were moved to the New Medicine ICU for treatment.