Cuttack, Mar 16: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed profound grief over the tragic fire incident that broke out at the ICU of SCB Medical College and Hospital’s Trauma Care Unit on the wee hours of Monday.

The Chief Minister personally visited the hospital and assured the patients and families of full support from the government. Besides, Majhi directed a departmental inquiry into the incident to ascertain the cause and ensure accountability.

He also instructed officials to immediately transfer patients to safer facilities and continue their treatment without interruption.

In a compassionate gesture, the Chief Minister announced an ex-gratia assistance of Rs 25 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) for the next of kin of each deceased victim. He further directed medical authorities to provide the best possible treatment to those injured in the blaze.

Also Read: Major Fire Breaks Out at SCB Medical College & Hospital in Cuttack: 10 Killed

During his visit, Majhi met with patients and their relatives, offering condolences and reassurance. He emphasised that the government would extend all necessary support to ensure proper medical care and rehabilitation for those affected.

At least 10 people were killed in the incident.

Around 15 patients were admitted to the ICU when the fire occurred. Most of the patients were on ventilator and oxygen support, making it difficult to shift them quickly after the fire started. Several of them died during the evacuation process, sources said.