The misfortune occurred sometime around noon. Massive leakage from an oxygen tank caused disruption in vital oxygen supply for at least half an hour, which allegedly resulted in the deaths of several patients who were on ventilator support. A fire brigade team as well as technicians rushed to the spot.
Reacting to the incident, 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.”
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
Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) Commissioner Kailas Jadhav said there were around 150 patients – of whom 127 were on oxygen and the remaining 23 on ventilator.
“This is an extremely unfortunate incident. Our priority at the moment is to save those on life support. There will be a high-level inquiry to probe whether the tank was properly maintained or not. I cannot comment on it at the moment,” said Mr. Jadhav.
“It’s an unfortunate incident. As per preliminary info, we’ve learnt that 11 people died. We’re trying to get a detailed report. We’ve ordered an enquiry as well. Those who are responsible will not be spared,” said FDA Minister Dr Rajendra Shingane on Nashik Oxygen tanker leak incident.
But now the report are coming that, at least 22 COVID-19 patients were reported to have lost their lives on Wednesday at Nashik’s Dr. Zakir Hussain Hospital owing to acute shortage of oxygen following massive leakage from a tank. Confirming the deaths, State Health Minister Rajesh Tope said a probe would be ordered into the incident.
Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope has also reacted to this incident and said, “This is an unfortunate incident. I spoke to Nashik municipal commissioner who has informed me that the situation is under control now. I’ll be going to Nashik soon. Nashik Guardian Min Chhagan Bhujbal has already gone there.”
Meanwhile, Former Maharashtra CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis has also reacted to the Nashik Oxygen tanker gas leak– “What happened in Nashik is terrible. It’s being said that 11 people died which is very disturbing. I demand that the other patients be helped & shifted if needed. We demand a detailed inquiry,” as quoted by ANI.
On the other side, CMO Maharashtra has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakhs to kin of the deceased and a high-level inquiry has been ordered to probe the Nashik incident.
