Maharashtra CM orders probe into Ahmednagar hospital fire

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday ordered an in-depth inquiry into the fire at Ahmednagar civil hospital, which claimed the lives of 11 COVID-19 patients.

Expressing grief over the tragedy, Thackeray directed the administration to ensure that those responsible for it get strict punishment.

The blaze erupted in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Ahmednagar hospital around 11 am on Saturday and killed 11 patients, who were undergoing treatment against coronavirus, officials said.

On learning about the incident, Thackeray spoke to district guardian minister Hassan Mushrif and state chief secretary Sitaram Kunte, and asked them to ensure that other patients admitted there should get proper treatment without any disturbance, a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said.

'The CM said the probe will be done by the district collector and the report should be submitted to the government,' it said.

Maharashtra Energy Minister Nitin Raut also ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident and warned of strict action against those found guilty.

He said the electricity department's inspection team has reached the hospital and it will start its probe after the police panchnama.

Taking to Twitter, Raut said the Ahmednagar civil hospital fire incident was 'very unfortunate'.

'I have ordered a detailed inquiry into this incident. Meanwhile, electricity inspection department has reached the incident spot.

'The inspection team will start its inquiry after the police panchnama is completed,' he said.

Strict action will be taken as per rules against those who are found guilty after the inquiry, he added.