Health Minister gives Strict instructions to rigorously enforce fire safety norms

Bhubaneswar,22/03/2026: Minsiter of Health & Family Welafre Dr.Mukesh Mahaling chaired a high level review meeting with Special focus on fire safety in Government hospital today. Dr Mahaling issued strict instructions to all government hospitals to rigorously enforce fire safety norms and conduct regular inspections.
The review covered fire safety infrastructure at medical colleges, district headquarters hospitals, and other health centres across the state. The Minister instructed to check the fire-fighting equipment in every hospital, it must remain fully functional, with mandatory regular checks and mock drills. Officials were also instructed to maintain close coordination with the Works Department and Fire Services Department while implementing these measures.
Dr. Mahaling reiterated that the safety of patients and the general public is the government’s foremost priority, and no negligence in this regard will be tolerated. He called upon all officials to remain highly vigilant and proactive in the coming days. The meeting was attended by Health Secretary Aswathy S., Special Secretary Dr Bijay Mohapatra, senior officials, and, virtually, the Chief District Medical Officers of all districts, along with heads of medical colleges were joined