Nashik: Amidst the shortage of oxygen in several districts of Maharashtra, an incident of oxygen tank leakage was reported from Zakir Hussain Hospital in Nashik. In a tragic incident, 22 patients, who were on ventilators at a hospital in Nashik district, died on Wednesday.

"COVID-19 patients on ventilators in Nashik died probably due to lack of oxygen availability," said Health Minister Rajesh Tope. A video of oxygen purportedly leaking from the storage plant has gone viral on social media.

A leakage was reported from an oxygen tanker at the hospital while refilling, prompting the hospital and local administration officials to take measures to stop the leak. Although the leakage was stopped with the help of fire department, the condition of patients on oxygen support in the meantime deteriorated and they lost their lives.

Rajesh Tope stated that leakage must have affected the supply of oxygen inside the hospital, adding that accountability will be fixed.

"Due to the valves leakage of the tanker, there was massive leakage. This would have affected the supply inside the hospital. I am yet to gather more information. We will issue a press note after gathering more information," he informed.

The oxygen tank leak outside the hospital caused the gas to blow-out throughout the area. While the team of fire brigade was rushed in to avert the leak. Zakir Hussain Hospital is run by Nashik Municipal Corporation. According to reports, nearly 171 COVID-19 patients admitted to the hospital were on the oxygen support while 67 are critical.

Nashik Municipal Commissioner Kailash Shinde, informed that the supply from the plant was stopped after the leakage. He said that there are nearly 700 patients admitted to the hospital. He added that several patients are serious adding that all possible steps are being taken by the doctors to save lives.

FDA Minister Dr Rajendra Shingane expressed, "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."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offerend condolences on the incident. PM Modi on his Twitter handle wrote, "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."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also offered condolences on those who lost their lives in Nashik incident. Shah on his Twitter handle wrote, "I am distressed to hear the news of the accident of oxygen leak in a hospital in Nashik. I express my deepest condolences on this irreparable loss of those who have lost their loved ones in this accident. I pray to God for the efficiency of all the other patients."