Chalk out fool-proof plans for Covid situation: Odisha CM tells Collectors, SPs

Bhubaneswar: As the Covid-19 positive cases surge in Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today directed District Collectors and SPs chalk out fool-proof plans after assessing the situation on ground. Also, Chief Secretary SC Mahapatra was asked to monitor the Covid situation closely and brief the Chief Minister about the same.

During a review meeting on Covid situation through video conferencing, Patnaik told the officials, “I would like each Collector and SP to apply their minds taking the field situation into consideration and make fool proof planning. I would like the observers to have a close look at this. Whatever gaps are there, departments should take ownership to fill them, the Chief Secretary would monitor this closely and brief me in the next meeting.”

He further stated the government must be prepared for the worst case scenario.

“In spite of the increasing cases, so far we have been able to manage the Covid care requirement of the patients. However, the rising cases in some districts is a major cause of concern. The virus is now spreading in the double and triple mutant strains. In this wave, even young people are suffering from health complications,” said Patnaik.

Praising traders’ associations in some towns of the State for reducing market timings and closing shops voluntarily, the Chief Minister said, “This is a welcome step and I sincerely appreciate this as it shows complete involvement of the community in Covid management.”

He also asked the Collectors to partner with resident associations, merchant associations and community based organizations while taking steps for Covid management.

The Chief Minister directed the officials to ensure sufficient and timely supply of oxygen to Cvoid patients.

Among others, Chief Secretary SC Mahapatra, DGP Abhay, Collectors and SPs and senior officials were present in the meeting.

Odisha today reported another 6,073 Covid positive cases taking the tally to 50,958. The Covid death toll in the State reached 2,007 as 10 more persons died of the disease.