PM takes stock of oxygen availability, calls for synergy across ministries and states

Senior officials briefed the Prime Minister on the availability of oxygen and its projected use across 12 high-burden states (Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan) in the next 15 days.

Covid update: PM Modi takes stock of oxygen availability-VPN

Asianet Newsable English

New Delhi, First Published Apr 16, 2021, 5:36 PM IST | Last Updated Apr 16, 2021, 5:36 PM IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday carried out a comprehensive review of medical-grade oxygen supply in the country.

Prime Minister Modi was apprised of the district-level situation in these states. He was also informed that the Centre and States are in regular contact, and estimates for projected demand have been shared with states.

Stressing upon the need for synergy across ministries and state governments, the Prime Minister suggested ways to increase oxygen production in the country.

The distribution of surplus stocks of oxygen in steel plants for medical use was also discussed.

Prime Minister Modi urged the officials to ensure seamless movement of tankers carrying oxygen across the country. The Centre has exempted all interstate movement of oxygen tankers from registration of permits to enable easier movement.

Officials said that states and transporters had been asked to ensure that tankers carrying oxygen move round the clock with drivers working in shifts to ensure faster turnaround and adequate capacity to meet the surge in demand. Cylinder filling plants will also be allowed to operate round the clock with necessary safeguards.

There are also efforts being undertaken to import medical grade oxygen.

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