Twenty two people died after an oxygen tank leaked at Nashik’s Dr Zakir Hussain NMC Hospital, Nashik Collector confirmed. The leakage accident happened when tankers were being filled. While operation is underway to control the situation, a video tweeted by ANI showed gaseous oxygen spreading across the area which was supposed to be used by the hospital. About 171 patients were on oxygen in the hospital.
Explaining the cause behind the deaths, Nashik collector Suraj Mandhre said, “The supply tank that was set up in this hospital started leaking due to cork damage after which the pressure decreased and those on invasive ventilator did not receive adequate oxygen on time. 22 people have died.”
“After nearly an hour, the same tank has been started. It is being used to supply oxygen to the patients now. However, the decrease in pressure earlier led to the incident,” he said.
Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope said an investigation will be done to look into the matter. “The leakage was spotted at the oxygen tank which was supplying oxygen to these patients,” he told reporters in Mumbai.
“It’s an unfortunate incident,” Food and Drug Administration Minister Rajendra Shingane said. “We’re trying to get a detailed report. We’ve ordered an inquiry as well. Those who are responsible will not be spared.”
Around 31 of 80 patients who needed oxygen have been shifted from the Zakir Hussain Hospital to other facilities.
Videos shared on social media showed the oxygen leakage covering the surrounding areas in white fumes. The incident came at a time when Maharashtra, which is the worst-hit state due to the coronavirus pandemic, is struggling with oxygen shortages to treat patients.
