Given that experts are warning of a potential third wave of the coronavirus, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has directed all districts to set up oxygen plants while also asking them to maintain adequate stock of essential medication.
Further, Thackeray instructed the officials to make sure migrant workers entering the state are registered to make sure they’re not inadvertently spreading the virus.
The Chief Minister passed on the instructions during a virtual meeting held with all district collectors, senior ministers as well as other government officials to assess the current situation around COVID-19.
While Thackeray acknowledged that the restrictions put in place by the authorities have brought along a reduction in cases, he cautioned that the state needs to be better prepared if a third wave arrives.
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“The required permissions have been granted to set up oxygen plants wherever needed. If not, they are being given immediately. But, in any case, the district administration has to ensure that adequate oxygen is available for patients in future and no reason will be acceptable for it. Also, maintain the stock of essential medicines from now as part of the preparation for the third wave,” Thackeray said during the meeting.
He also stressed the need for timely vaccinations to curb further infections. “But, for it, adequate and timely supply of vaccines is essential. Now, we have announced free vaccinations for people in the age group of 18 to 44. The planning will be done based on supply and it will have to be implemented properly in the districts,” the CM said.
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Among the most affected by this pandemic are migrant workers who earn their living off of daily wages. Thackeray said that workers will start returning to Maharashtra when the number of cases subsides.
“But, we need to make sure they are not bringing the infection with them. Otherwise, all our efforts will go to waste. So, ensure proper registration of labourers on time by industry and contractors. Then, their tests and isolation can be decided,” he went on to say.
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