The MHA order noted that the availability of an adequate and uninterrupted supply of oxygen is an important prerequisite for managing moderate and severe cases of Covid-19, and with the number of cases on the rise, the supplies will have to keep pace.
The Union Home Ministry on Thursday passed an order prohibiting the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes by manufacturers and suppliers till further notice.
The MHA order noted that the availability of an adequate and uninterrupted supply of oxygen is an essential prerequisite for managing moderate and severe cases of Covid-19. With the number of cases on the rise, the supplies will have to keep pace.
The new guidelines state that there would no restriction imposed on the movement of medical oxygen between states. Transport authorities shall ensure free inter-state movement of oxygen-carrying vehicles.
Besides, no restrictions shall be imposed on oxygen manufacturers and suppliers to limit oxygen supplies only to the hospitals of the state/UT in which they are located.
The order notes that oxygen-carrying vehicles will have free movement into cities without any time restriction.
All states have been advised to strictly abide by the plan for supplying medical oxygen prepared by the Empowered Group-II. The District Magistrates/Deputy Commissioners and SPs, SSPs and DCPs, will be personally liable for implementing these directions.