Delhi allotted more oxygen than it asked, now they need to rationalise it: Harsh Vardhan

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Saturday said that Delhi has been allotted more than the oxygen quota it had asked for and it is the state government`s responsibility to rationalise and plan for it.

New Delhi: In the wake of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country is struggling to cope up with the growing demand for oxygen. There have been reports of oxygen shortage from various parts of the country. Amid complaints of oxygen shortage in Delhi hospitals, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Saturday (April 24) said that Delhi has been allotted more than the oxygen quota it had asked for and it is the state government's responsibility to rationalise and plan for it.

Dr Harsh Vardhan inspected preparedness at the Sardar Patel Covid Care Centre and Hospital, which will be functional for COVID-19 patients from next week. He said, "Each state has been assigned their quota for oxygen as per the production of oxygen in India.

Even Delhi has been allotted more than the (oxygen) quota they had asked for, and Delhi CM even thanked the PM for that yesterday... Now to rationalise the quota in a timely manner and the responsibility to finely plan it lies with the state government," said Vardhan.

Dr Harsh Vardhan also stated that the Central government has also assured unhindered transportation of oxygen in Delhi."Earlier, CM said they are having a problem with the transportation of oxygen after which the central government assured them they will ensure unhindered transportation. The government also assured that strict action will be taken against those who try to create hindrance in transportation," said Vardhan.

During his visit, Health Minister also appealed to everyone to maintain the COVID's appropriate behaviour "Do gaj ki duri, mask hai jaruri,"( maintain two metres distance) but said there is no need to panic."One needs to deal with the coronavirus with patience. There is no need to rush to the hospital immediately in a panic situation. Stay in contact with your doctor over the telephone and keep consulting them. The important weapon against this is COVID-appropriate behaviour," said Vardhan."Do gaj ki duri, mask hai jaruri. Also, wear your mask properly. Avoid visiting any crowded place. Wash or sanitise your hands frequently," he said.

(Inputs from ANI)