Request Centre to provide kits to test COVID-19, says Mamata

Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday stated that given the current situation when the whole world is trying to combat the COVID-19 conundrum, she would appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that necessary clearances are given to set up laboratories in the state to carry out swab tests without further delay. She said she will also request him to send kits for testing for Coronavirus at the earliest.

In reply to a question, Banerjee said: "Tomorrow (Friday), the Prime Minister will carry out a video conference with all the Chief Ministers. If I get a scope, I will inform him about the delay. There are mainly three issues. Firstly, there is no supply of required items and machinery to the state. Secondly, proper guidelines to fight the disease need to be issued and lastly, I would appeal to him to ensure that clearances are given to set up laboratories here at the earliest."

She held a marathon meeting with the Health department officials, principals of state-run hospitals and representatives of the private healthcare units at Nabanna Sabhaghar.

She further maintained that there are two laboratories in the state where swab tests are carried out. In many states, there is only one and there are as many as 74 laboratories in the country. "We have applied for clearances to set up the same at Siliguri, Burdwan, Jangalmahal and Midnapore. But the task cannot be executed as ICMR is yet to give permission. In such a situation, clearances need to be given as early as possible so that people do not suffer," she said adding that in such a situation the state government has ordered safety gloves, masks, 300 ventilators and even ECMO machine that is very essential for the treatment of lungs.

Assuring that markets are not going to be closed, she said: "All markets will be kept open or else wherefrom will we get our food? People visit markets at a stipulated time. In the afternoon, most of the markets remain empty. So there is no constant gathering. Those who visit the markets including shopkeepers should follow the dos and don'ts."

Cracking the whip on rumour-mongers, she said stringent action will be taken against them. In the same breath, she directed all Inspectors-in-Charge, Superintendents of Police and Commissioners of all Police Commissionerates to take immediate steps if anyone is found hoarding essential goods to black-market the same.

She also maintained that around 2.5 crore beneficiaries of ICDS and midday meal facilities are also being provided with ration so that people are not deprived of nutritious food. Stating that her government is trying its best to render all-out support, Banerjee asked the state Chief Secretary whether a medical emergency disaster fund can be set up so that corporate houses and private sectors can also come forward to extend their support using which necessary machines can be bought.

Taking note of the immense pressure on Beliaghata ID Hospital, Banerjee said more 300 beds will be set up there, along with the new building of MR Bangur Hospital and the newly constructed night shelter at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital which will be converted to a ward at present. The Chief Minister also discussed the matter regarding isolation wards in private hospitals. She also enquired about the necessary requirements at Beliaghata ID Hospital from its principal Dr Anima Haldar.

She also appealed to people not to ostracize anyone suffering from the disease but to "fight the battle together".