At least 22 suspected COVID-19 patients were feared dead here on Wednesday due to the leak in the oxygen tank of the civic-run Zakir Hussain Hospital in this Maharashtra city in western India. 

The incident occurred today at noon and has jeopardized the lives of patients surviving on oxygen.

"While refilling, a leakage occurred in the oxygen supply tank in a hospital which resulted a sudden major fall in the oxygen pressure. 22 patients, who were undergoing treatments on ventilation and on oxygen support, died due to the interruption in the oxygen supply," Suraj Mandhare, District Collector, Nashik said.

Presently, there are 150 patients admitted at the hospital, IBNS said quoting local authorities. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: "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."

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi posted: "The news of patients’ death at Nashik’s Zakhir Hussain Hospital is extremely tragic. My heartfelt condolences to the aggrieved families. I appeal to State Govt and party workers to provide all possible assistance."