Bhubaneswar: Health & Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling on Sunday reviewed fire safety measures in government hospitals and directed officials to conduct regular inspections and mock drills to ensure patient safety.
Addressing officers at a meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan, the minister emphasised strict compliance with fire safety norms in all medical facilities. He instructed that fire extinguishing equipment should be fully functional at all times and that hospital staff remain vigilant to respond promptly during emergencies.
Dr. Mahaling also urged coordination with the Works Department and the Fire Department to strengthen emergency response mechanisms. “The safety of patients and the general public is the government’s top priority. No negligence will be tolerated,” he said.
The meeting reviewed arrangements in medical colleges, District Headquarters Hospitals (DHHs), and other health centers. The minister instructed officials to implement the discussed measures urgently and take timely action to prevent any mishaps.
The session was attended by Ashwani S., Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Health & Family Welfare Department; Dr. Bijaya Kumar Mohapatra, Special Secretary (M.S); senior officers; and all District Chief Health Officers and Medical College Heads, who participated via virtual mode.
