Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan warns against hiking prices of masks and oximeters

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that the state is facing major challenges in the second wave of the pandemic and has called preparedness to meet it. He said the test positivity rate has gone as high as 28% in few districts. Even though there is a slight dip in the TPR now it should not be seen as a relief, he said.
There are complaints regarding few private clinics not maintaining the Covid protocols, he said. "There should not be any lapses in maintaining the crowds at the clinics and also during the swab collection. Still, there are reports that long queues are being seen in the vaccination centres. Steps should be taken to avoid this," he said.
Vijayan also pointed out that there were reports that the prices of oximeters, masks and other essential commodities have increased. "The government will take strict action against those who are selling it at higher prices. All the departments concerned, including the drugs control department, police and other agencies have been asked to take action against the shops under the disaster management act.
"Steps have been taken to import emergency medicines and other essential goods required for the Covid treatment from foreign countries. The Centre has given sanction. The NORKA ROOTS is coordinating this and the state government has sought the support of all the non-resident Keralites."
Already several supports are pouring in from different countries by donating to the chief minister’s distress relief fund. But now we are seeking support for providing the essential commodities for the Covid treatment. A special cell comprising three IAS officials has been constituted to coordinate foreign help. Industries secretary K Elangovan will be heading this team.