Ramp up testing, audit installation of ventilators given by Centre: PM Modi

While taking note of unutilised ventilators in storage in some states, Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed an immediate audit of installation and operation of ventilators provided by the Centre should be carried out. 

During a high-level meeting to review the COVID-19 situation in India, PM Modi on Saturday asked states to ramp up testing, with the use of RT-PCR & Rapid Tests, especially in areas with high test positivity rates.

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“Localised containment strategies are need of the hour,” PM Modi said. 

He said that it is important to ensure the proper distribution of oxygen supply in rural areas and directed that a distribution plan should be worked out, including through the provision of Oxygen Concentrator. 

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PM Modi that necessary training should be provided to health workers in operation of ventilators, other equipment, quoted PTI. 

India is currently batting a lethal second wave of COVID-19 and is recording over 300,000 cases and over 3,500 deaths daily. The crisis is accompanied by a shortage of medical oxygen, ICU beds, medicines in various states. The second wave of coronavirus is believed to further driven by B.1.617 variant, which is also called double mutant and is said to be more transmissible than the original strain.