Centre asks states to maintain supply of medical oxygen smooth, hastle-free during lockdown

Centre has asked states to give special attention on keeping the supply of medical oxygen smooth and hassle-free in the lockdown period. It has been emphasized upon as there is a critical need to maintain adequate supply of medical oxygen in the country in the wake of COVID-19 Pandemic and as, medical oxygen is also included in the national list and WHO's list of essential medicines. 

Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla has written to all State Chief Secretaries asking to ensure smooth and hassle-free supply of Medical Oxygen. He also stressed that all Manufacturing units of Medical Oxygen and related items, their transport and cross land border movements,



workers engaged in factories are exempted from lockdown.

The Home Secretary also emphasized that social distancing and proper hygiene practices must be ensured in each of these activities, as specified in the lockdown measures. He said, it will be the responsibility of the head of the organization and establishment to ensure compliance of such norms. The district authorities have been asked to ensure strict enforcement. Further, the communication also stressed that District authorities and field agencies may be made aware of the strict compliance, especially with reference to supply of medical oxygen.