11 killed in fire at hotel used as COVID-19 facility in India

Agencies

New Delhi, Aug 9

At least 11 persons died after a fire broke out in a hotel turned into COVID-19 care center by a private hospital at Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh of India Sunday morning.

About 50 COVID-19 patients were being treated at the time of the incident. Electric short circuit caused the fire at around five in the morning, The Times of India reported citing preliminary reports.

One Swarna Palace hotel situated on Eluru Road was taken on lease by Ramesh Hospital to treat COVID-19 patients. About 50 patients were admitted in the Swarna Palace in last two weeks by the hospital. About 10 paramedicals were assisting them at the time of the incident.

Most of the deaths have taken place due to suffocation from smoke with officials stating that thick smoke further aggravated conditions of COVID-19 patients already suffering with respiratory problems.

Published Date: 2020-08-09 12:41:00

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