Odisha Govt Forms Task Force to Prevent Hospital Fires

Bhubaneswar: In response to recent fire incidents at 2 private hospitals in Cuttack, the Odisha government has mandated the formation of task forces in all municipal corporations and districts to bolster fire and electrical safety in healthcare facilities.

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja has directed the constitution of joint task forces, comprising officials from the Health, Home Departments, and Electrical Inspectors. These teams will conduct regular audits of fire and electrical safety standards across hospitals and nursing homes within their respective jurisdictions.

For municipal corporations, the task force will be headed by the Municipal Commissioner, with members including the Police SP/DSP, directors of major hospitals, Public Health Officer, Fire Officer, and senior electrical engineers. Similarly, at the district level, the District Collector will chair the task force, assisted by the Superintendent of Security, CDM&PHO, Assistant Fire Officer, and Superintendent Engineer.

The Health Department will furnish a comprehensive list of hospitals and nursing homes to both municipal corporations and district administrations. The task forces will meticulously document audit findings to ensure compliance with safety regulations.