Jharsuguda: Amid COVID-19 pandemic, the Odisha government decided to establish COVID hospitals in all districts. This was informed by Health Minister Naba Das today.

As per a directive issued by Chief Minister Naveen Patanik, the government is in the process of talks with private hospitals to set up COVID hospitals, the minister added.

The Minister called a crucial meeting at Jharsuguda Collectorate at around 11.45 am on Tuesday to discuss the modalities of setting up COVID hospitals in Jharsuguda district, he informed.

“During the meeting the State government is likely to sign an agreement with CARE Hospital and Vikash Hospital for establishment of the special COVID hospitals,” the minister added.

The Jharsuguda district administration has identified Block Diamond school and Navodaya School, Lahandabuda as probable spots to set up the special hospitals, he informed.

Also, the Health Minister held talks with Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan over phone about the current situation in the State. During the discussion, Das requested the Union Minister to allow the State to open more testing centres and provide adequate number of personal protection equipment and testing kits.