Extend lockdown by another 15 days, ministers tell Rajasthan CM | Jaipur News
Participants of the meeting noted that despite some reduction in cases, infection rate was more than 15% in the state and death rate even higher. So it was important to continue with the lockdown to consolidate the gains in controlling transmission, they observed.
The ministers were told by medical experts that the threat of the second wave had not been fully brought under control and hospitals and medical resources were still facing pressure from patients. Experiences of other countries suggested that there was not much of a difference between the second and third wave and in such a case, it would be appropriate to continue lockdown for some more time.
Experts recommended that negligence in enforcing Covid protocol for a longer period after the first wave had proved costly and therefore strict curbs were necessary for some more time. Considering the advice of the experts, the council of ministers suggested that lockdown should continue for a few more days, it was informed.
The meeting expressed concern on the shortage of Covid vaccines because of supply bottlenecks from the Centre. Members said because of this, the pace of vaccination drives had slowed across the state, which would ultimately weaken the efforts towards effective prevention of infection and considerable difficulty in countering the third wave.
The council of ministers strongly put the demand for adequate supply of vaccines from the Centre. Expressing concern over black fungus epidemic, the attendees said necessary steps should be taken for its treatment and control.
It was also suggested at the meeting that all ministers should visit the districts under their charge in the next few days to take stock of the situation of infection and medical facilities there. It was decided that another meeting of the ministers would be held shortly to chalk out further strategy.
Chief minister Ashok Gehlot said the state government was also contemplating a comprehensive social security policy for families whose earning members have died or children become orphans due to infection.
The meeting emphasised on the need for enforcement of Covid protocol more effectively for breaking the chain of infection, identifying patients with influenza like illness (ILI) symptoms, medical kit distribution, screening, home isolation and regular monitoring of treatment.
