Fire Safety in Hospitals Under Focus as Health Minister Orders Strict Compliance

Bhubaneswar: Amid growing concerns over safety in healthcare facilities, Health & Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling on Sunday directed authorities to tighten fire safety measures across government hospitals in Odisha.

Chairing a review meeting at the Lok Seva Bhawan, the minister stressed that all medical institutions must adhere strictly to prescribed safety norms. He called for routine inspections and periodic mock drills to ensure preparedness in handling emergency situations.

Dr. Mahaling emphasised that fire-fighting equipment must remain functional at all times, and urged hospital authorities to maintain constant vigilance to safeguard patients and staff.

He also highlighted the need for stronger inter-departmental coordination, particularly with the Works and Fire Services departments, to improve response mechanisms and prevent potential incidents.

The review covered preparedness across medical colleges, District Headquarters Hospitals (DHHs), and other health centres, with instructions issued for immediate implementation of the discussed measures.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including Ashwani S., Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Health & Family Welfare Department, and Dr. Bijaya Kumar Mohapatra, Special Secretary, along with district health officials and medical college heads who joined virtually.