Bhubaneswar, April 27: Maintaining that the COVID-19 was now spreading in the form of double and triple mutant strains, which is making even young people suffer, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday asked district Collectors and SPs to apply their minds taking the field situation into consideration and make foolproof planning.
“We should always be prepared for the worst case scenario and that’s the principle by which we are able to handle natural disasters effectively. I would like each Collector and SP to apply their minds taking the field situation into consideration and make foolproof planning,” said Patnaik.
The Chief Minister was reviewing the COVID-19 management via video conferencing today.
Patnaik said, “We are in the midst of a severe crisis in the country. Many States and metro cities are witnessing a huge strain on the healthcare system. We need to be extremely cautious and alert in ensuring all measures to manage the situation in Odisha.”
“I would like the observers to have a close look at this. Whatever gaps are there, departments should take ownership to fill them,” said Patnaik.
He also directed the Chief Secretary to monitor this closely and brief him in the next meeting.
“I am happy to note that in some towns trader associations have volunteered to reduce market timings and undertake voluntary closing of shops. This is a welcome step and I sincerely appreciate this as it shows complete involvement of the community in COVID-19 management,” Patnaik said further.
“I would like the Collectors to work towards these kinds of community owned initiatives. They are effective and sustainable. Resident associations, merchant associations and various community based organisations should be made to partner in our efforts,” added Patnaik.
He asked the Collectors and SPs to closely monitor oxygen supply logistics to ensure sufficient and timely supply of oxygen to the patients. He also directed them to ensure that the critical medicines are available to the patients whenever required.
