1,500 BEDS LYING UNUSED IN THANE DUE TO SHORTAGE OF OXYGEN SUPPLY

THANE: More than 1,500 oxygen beds in the city are lying unused as the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) is awaiting adequate oxygen supply for these beds from the state.

While the city is reeling under shortage of oxygen, the Global Covid hospital is currently the only government facility with the availability of oxygen beds in the city.

In Thane city, out of the 4,666 beds available, 2,671 are oxygen beds, including the 1,500 lying vacant.

“We are awaiting assured supply of oxygen to open the 1,000 oxygen-bed facility near Voltas and the 500 oxygen-bed facility at Parking plaza. We cannot admit patients at these facilities without an assurance of regular and proper oxygen supply. As per the current situation, Global Covid and private hospitals’ oxygen beds will suffice as we still have around 20 per cent oxygen beds vacant despite the current situation,” said a senior officer from TMC’s health department.

Meanwhile, with the current spike in Covid cases, there are many who prefer to be admitted as soon as they find themselves positive. The TMC war room is also flooded with requests for beds. With hardly 30 per cent ICU beds available across the city including private hospitals, the TMC has appealed to the people to opt for beds only in severe conditions.

“All those who have mild symptoms without any comorbidities should isolate themselves at home. Others, depending on the severity of their conditions, should opt for an ICU or general bed. This will ensure that there are enough beds available for those in dire need,” said Ganesh Deshmukh, additional commissioner, Thane Municipal Corporation.