Thaindian News

Kolkata, Dec 12 (IANS) In a subtle message to the police and administration, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Monday called for ensuring there was no recurrence of the horrific AMRI Hospital fire tragedy that has so far claimed 93 lives - mostly patients trapped in beds.

“We all know how tragic and horrific the incident was. Such an incident should never ever recur. We need to ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated,” said Banerjee paying homage at a column erected in memory of the victims at the Lions Safari Park, a short distance from the ill-fated hospital.

The names of the victims are inscribed in the column put up by Kolkata Police.

Along with Banerjee, several of her ministers, her party’s lawmakers and top police officers paid floral tributes and lighted candles at the solemn half-hour function as the police band played solemn tunes, bugles sounded the last post and policemen reversed guns.

Banerjee wished peace for the departed souls and called for non-recurrence of such an incident while penning her thoughts at the memorial diary kept under the column.

“People died a horrible death struggling to breathe. It’s so tragic and painful to realise. We must ensure that such a mishap never happens again,” said Banerjee.

She also said a family member of the victims desirous of a job should approach the government.

“Along with the compensation from the central and the state government, whoever is desirous of getting a job should approach the authorities concerned. Necessary direction in this regard has already been issued,” said Banerjee.

She also had words of praise for the people who worked tirelessly during and after the fire tragedy.

“By expressing my thanks, I do not want to belittle the efforts of those who worked tirelessly and silently rescuing the people, dousing the fire or doing the post-mortem procedures. They have done their jobs excellently. It is their duty to stand beside people in times of need,” she said.