Authorities scale up liquid oxygen production in Mysuru

MYSURU: One of the major concerns reported at several states and a few parts of the state recently is the shortage in Oxygen supply for Covid-19 patients.
The shortage has been attributed to several reasons including unavailability of sufficient tankers. To enough oxygen supply to Covid hospitals, liquid oxygen plants are coming up in all districts.
In Mandya, two such small plants are proposed in the taluk hospitals at Srirangapatna and KR Pet. A 13,000-litre liquid oxygen plant is already operational at the district hospital in Mandya. “Now we are planning to set up two small plants in Srirangapatna and KR Pet taluk hospitals,” said District Health Officer Dr HP Manchegowda.
The existing 6,000-litre liquid oxygen plant at the Mysuru district hospital will be upgraded into 13,000-litres. “It should happen this week,” said DC Rohini Sindhuri.
“It will ensure oxygen supply under correct pressure for two days. It will also enable us to increase 200 oxygen beds at KR hospital,” she said.
In neighbouring Kodagu district, a new liquid oxygen plant is expected to be available for use soon. “By October 10, it will be inaugurated,” said Kodagu DC Annies Kanmani Joy.
The new plant at the district Covid hospital will have a capacity of 13,000 litres. Once it becomes operational, 300 oxygen beds can be supplied with oxygen continuously for 15 days.
According to authorities, presently oxygen is being brought to Kodagu from Mysuru every day. Authorities added that once the pandemic abates, oxygen for two – three months can be stored in the plant. It will be helpful to patients in case of natural disasters.
In Chikkamagalur district, work for a 6,000-litre plant is completed. “We have ordered for liquid oxygen. Once it is delivered, the plant will become operational,” said DC Dr Bagadi Gautham.
At the Chamarajanagar Covid-19 hospital, a 6000-litre KL liquid oxygen plant is coming up. “Presently tanker of oxygen is being supplied from Mysuru every day. Once this unit becomes operational, the transportation problem will be resolved,” said health department officials.