Corona Update: India Surpasses All Countries After 3.14 lakh New Infections; Further Crippled the Health Care System
New Delhi: The second wave sweeps the nation brutally affecting 3.14 citizens in the past 24 hours, the world’s highest surge. Around 2000 people succumbed to death as per the hospital data. The country faces one of the biggest challenges in history with a shortage of medical oxygen, hospital beds, and antiviral drug Remdesivir for the treatment of COVID.
The Centre has assured that “oxygen demand and supply is being monitored round the clock”. Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan tweeted last night saying- the government has increased the “quota of oxygen” for seven states- Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Delhi.
Since 15 April over 2 lakh infections have been recorded. A tally of the worst-hit states which contribute majorly to the surge is:
- Maharashtra – 67,468 cases
- Uttar Pradesh – 33,106 cases
- Delhi – 24,638 cases
- Karnataka – 23,558 cases
- Kerala – 22,414 cases
Maharashtra in view of the “Break the Chain” program has issued new guidelines capping attendance at all private and government hospitals not directly associated with the management of COVID 19 at 15%. Attendance at weddings in marriage ceremonies has been capped at 25%. Use of private vehicles excluding buses will only be allowed for essential services or valid reasons like medical emergencies. The oxygen leak at Nashik Hospital on Wednesday, cut down the oxygen supply for 30 minutes taking away the lives of 24individuals.
In Delhi, the high court has hit the government questioning its oblivion attitude towards the desperate oxygen crisis in the state.
Polling is being held in Bengal today for the sixth phase of state elections. Politicians have been criticized for holding election rallies despite the surge but campaigning continues. Union Minister Amit Shah will attend three poll meetings today. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will hold four public meetings in north and central Bengal.