There was a fire outbreak on Sunday morning at a Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) isolation centre in India that left 10 COVID-19 patients dead.
Ten other COVID-19 patients were injured in the tragedy that happened in Andhra Pradesh’s Vijaywada hotel that was converted into a COVID-19 care centre.
The cause of fire was yet to be ascertained at the time of filing this report, but it was said the fire outbreak might have been as a result of a short circuit.
The surviving COVID-19 patients have been shifted to another hospital, Zee News reported.
“The hotel was taken on lease and run by Ramesh Hospitals, a private hospital where COVID-19 patients were being treated. 40 patients & 10 medical staff were at the hotel at the time of the incident,” Andhra Pradesh Home Minister said.
Andhra Pradesh government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 50 lakh each to every deceased family.
President Ram Nath Kovind on Sunday condoled families, who lost members in the fire.
“Struck with grief after hearing tragic news about COVID-19 care centre in Vijayawada where an accidental fire caused loss of lives. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery for the injured,” the President tweeted.
Struck with grief after hearing tragic news about COVID-19 care centre in Vijayawada where an accidental fire caused loss of lives. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families. I wish speedy recovery for the injured.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 9, 2020
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Minister Amit Shah have also expressed grief over the incident.
Anguished by the fire at a Covid Centre in Vijayawada. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover as soon as possible. Discussed the prevailing situation with AP CM @ysjagan Ji and assured all possible support.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 9, 2020
Deeply anguished by the news of tragic fire accident at a COVID-19 facility in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Centre assures all possible support to the state govt. My condolences are with the affected families in this time of grief. Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured.
— Amit Shah (Modi Ka Parivar) (@AmitShah) August 9, 2020