New Delhi: Asserting the Centre is taking steps to boost the supply of oxygen to hospitals across the country amid the surge in Covid-19 cases, Union Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said a green corridor is being created to fast the movement of ‘Oxygen Express’ trains to facilitate the smooth transport of oxygen to states.
Goyal said a decision has been taken to start transportation of oxygen cylinders or tankers in trains, adding green corridors will be introduced to ensure the fast supply of oxygen.
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“Except for nine sectors, supply of oxygen for industrial purposes by manufacturers and suppliers will be prohibited from April 22 as a temporary measure. This has been done to ensure adequate supply of oxygen to hospitals,” ANI quoted Goyal as saying.
The Union Minister said India’s daily medical oxygen consumption was around 1,000-1,200 metric tonnes before the Covid pandemic hit the country.
“But on April 15, 4,795 metric tonnes of medical oxygen was used in the country. We have increased the production capacity in the last one year,” said Goyal.
“After an elaborate meeting with 12 states, the Central Government did mapping along with state governments on various requirements. 6,177 metric tonnes of oxygen has been finalized to be distributed to the states,” he added.
Goyal, however, said the state governments should keep the demand for medical oxygen under control.
“Demand-side management is as important as supply-side management. Containing Covid spread is the responsibility of state governments and they should fulfil this responsibility,” he added.
This comes as several states, including Maharashtra – worst affected by the pandemic, have sought the Centre’s support for oxygen cylinders for Covid patients.