Bhubaneswar, March 23: Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling has informed that the state's health department will conduct regular fire safety audits in government hospitals. In a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan, Mahaling emphasized the importance of strict fire safety enforcement, including periodic inspections and compliance checks across medical colleges, district hospitals, and healthcare centers.

The Minister directed officials to ensure that fire-fighting equipment remains functional and that regular mock drills are carried out. He also stressed the need for swift emergency responses and patient safety. Coordination with the Works and Fire Services Departments was advised to improve safety measures.

Following a recent fire tragedy at SCB Medical College in Cuttack that claimed 12 lives, Mahaling reassured the public that patient safety is the top priority. Despite opposition demands for his resignation, Mahaling reiterated the government's zero-tolerance approach toward negligence in healthcare facilities.