Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked all states to ensure that tankers carrying oxygen to other states must not be stopped or delayed. He said this at a meeting with the Chief Ministers of the 12 worst Covid-hit states after Delhi Chief Arvind Kejriwal – at the meeting - alleged that some states were stopping medical oxygen being transported to the national capital.
At the meeting, where shortages of oxygen, hospital beds and medical supplies amid a spurt of coronavirus cases across the country were discussed, PM Modi urged the states to set up high-level coordination committees to carry oxygen to different hospitals.
These committees should ensure that as soon as there is allotment of oxygen from the centre, it can deliver as per requirement in different hospitals immediately, he said.
Assuring the "high-burden" states of support from the centre, he called for the states to remain united in the fight against the virus.
He said the basis of India's success during the first wave of the pandemic was its united efforts and united strategy and reiterated that the country will have to address this challenge in the same way.
At the meeting, Mr Kejriwal, addressing PM Modi, said: "Will people of Delhi not get oxygen if there is no oxygen-producing plant here? Please suggest whom should I speak to in the central government when an oxygen tanker meant for Delhi is stopped in another state".
Advertisement"People in major pain due to oxygen shortage. We fear a big tragedy may happen due to oxygen shortage and we will never be able to forgive ourselves. I request you with folded hands to direct all Chief Ministers to ensure smooth movement of oxygen tankers coming to Delhi," he added.
