As the second wave of Covid hits the country, volunteers, NGOs, and government officials are working around the clock to meet the people’s medical needs. As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare statistics on April 30, India needs around 1,62,000 ICU beds to meet hospitalisation requirements. Thus, people are concerned about the situation prevailing within the country.
Though there are few lapses in providing Covid care facilities on time, ordinary people, charity organisations, and private businesses are all taking their steps to help alleviate the crisis. This has become a relief for Covid patients across the country.
The Rotary District 3190 is one such organisation that has been working for Covid relief in the state since the first wave. Speaking to NewsKarnataka, D.G Rtn. B.L. Nagendra Prasad said that, “Rotarians have been assisting the BBMP and the government health sector by providing gloves, PPE kits, masks, sanitisers, plasma, blood and even food packets.” Apart from this, a WhatsApp group was created for people who lost their jobs and are seeking for one. He explained that a group was also created to keep a track on the medical facilities and emergency services across the state. “Last year we did set up a small Covid War room and Covid hospitals with the help of few other hospitals. Since the number of patients decreased dramatically, we had to shut down the hospital operations,” he added. Even though the situation isn’t the same this year and the team is planning to set up hospitals again.
When asked how the members function during the pandemic, he explained that members are connected to the government’s public health sector, so if anything needs to be done, they get together as soon as possible. “Today about 40 oxygen cylinders were brought in and our volunteers are actively working to get it delivered at various places including government hospitals,” added Nagendra.
He went on to say that this is the time everybody must come together to support one another. “We are aware of what is out there and it is not just the duty of corporates or government officials to help the needy. A helpline number also has been opened to give updated information on Covid treatment facilities. Many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have shown interest in assisting us and we are prepared to support the patients,” said Nagendra.
Responsible behaviour from organisations like these, along with the cooperation from the general public, NGOs and the government will undoubtedly aid the nation in containing the virus soon.
