New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sorrow regarding the tragic loss of life in the devastating fire at the Cuttack hospital in Odisha. He declared an ex-gratia payment of Rs. 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families affected by this calamity.

The fire broke out in the early morning hours on Monday, primarily affecting the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the trauma care facility at SCB Medical College and Hospital. Reports indicate that at least 10 patients lost their lives, while numerous others sustained serious burn injuries.

In a statement posted on X, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) remarked, "The incident at the Cuttack hospital is profoundly tragic. My heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the quick recovery of the injured."

Furthermore, it was announced that an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh would be provided to the next of kin of each deceased individual, while the injured would receive Rs. 50,000.

The fire reportedly ignited between 2:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. due to a suspected electrical short circuit.

After visiting the injured at the hospital, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 25 lakh for the families of those who perished. He mandated a judicial inquiry into the incident and vowed to take stringent action against anyone found negligent.

In statements to the press, CM Majhi explained, "A significant fire erupted in the trauma care unit of SCB Medical College and Hospital, likely due to a short circuit. This tragedy impacted patients in the Trauma Care ICU and an adjacent ICU ward.

"During the chaos, 23 patients in the Trauma Care ICU were relocated to safer areas. Tragically, seven critically ill patients died during the transfer, and three others passed away after being moved to other ICUs. This is an unfortunate event."

He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed to Lord Jagannath for the swift recovery of the injured. Majhi instructed the Health Department to ensure advanced care for those severely injured and currently receiving treatment in various ICUs and wards.

Additionally, he acknowledged the bravery of 11 hospital staff members, including security personnel, who risked their lives to assist in rescuing patients. Many sustained injuries from smoke inhalation and flames but are now in stable condition.

"Since our government assumed office, I have consistently directed the department to assess and enhance fire safety measures in all hospitals across the state. For the budget of 2025–26, we have earmarked Rs 320 crore to bolster fire safety protocols, with work progressing rapidly.

"In the next financial year, 2026–27, Rs 400 crore has been designated for these safety enhancements," stated the Chief Minister.

Chief Minister Majhi instructed officials from all departments to ensure that advanced fire suppression systems are installed in hospitals statewide.