R. S. Agarwal, Joint Chairman, Emami Group of Companies, said on Monday that the company was keen to re-open the AMRI Hospital in Kolkata where over 90 people were killed in a fire in December, 2011. Most of the victims were patients.

According to Agarwal, Emami is in discussion with the State Government regarding re-opening of the fire-ravaged super-speciality hospital.

“We are trying, but what to do? We have applied to the (State) Government and are talking to them again and again. And, I have no comments to offer,” he said, responding to a question as to why the hospital had remained shut for nearly two years after the fire mishap.

He was speaking on the sidelines of a seminar on the retail industry – Youth Brigade on Indian Retail – organised by MCC Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“Since it was an accident, it was at the God’s will. So, only God can help us (in terms of) when it will be opened,” Agarwal said. The AMRI Hospital’s Dhakuria unit is in southern part of the city.

Agarwal added that all the necessary clearances have been obtained.

ayan.pramanik@thehindu.co.in