Twenty-two people died after an oxygen tank leaked at Dr Zakir Hussain Hospital in Maharashtra’s Nashik district causing oxygen supply to be halted for around 30 minutes on Wednesday.
An oxygen tanker leaked while tankers were being filled at the hospital. Officials were also present at the spot and an operation to contain the leak is underway.
#WATCH | An oxygen tanker leaked while tankers were being filled at Dr Zakir Hussain Hospital in #Nashik, #Maharashtra. Officials are present at the spot, operation to contain the leak is underway. Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/zzvaBuvLP5
— NewsMobile (@NewsMobileIndia) April 21, 2021
Earlier, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister Rajendra Shingane said, “It is an unfortunate incident. As per preliminary information, we have learnt that 11 people died in the incident. We are trying to get a detailed report.” “We have ordered an enquiry as well. Anyone found responsible will not be spared,” he added.
The tragedy at a hospital in Nashik because of oxygen tank leakage is heart-wrenching. Anguished by the loss of lives due to it. Condolences to the bereaved families in this sad hour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.
The tragedy at a hospital in Nashik because of oxygen tank leakage is heart-wrenching. Anguished by the loss of lives due to it. Condolences to the bereaved families in this sad hour.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2021
Besides, an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakhs will be provided to kin of the deceased. A high-level inquiry has been ordered to probe the Nashik incident, Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), Maharashtra said.
Several states are facing a shortage of medical oxygen, especially Maharashtra.
58,924 new COVID-19 cases were reported in Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, according to the state health ministry. As many as 52,412 people recovered in the said period and 351 died. The total case tally reached 38,98,262 while the death toll reached 60,824.