India’s Covid struggle
THE world has watched in horror as the coronavirus pandemic has tightened its grip on India this month, with a devastating second wave which has seen the death toll rise to nearly 200,000 on Tuesday (27).
India had a record number of cases in recent days, with some experts blaming mass gatherings, contagious variants, and low vaccination rates for the steep rise in infections.
Reports of crematoriums running out of space to cremate the dead, hospitals turning patients away and relatives begging for oxygen supplies on social media to save their loved ones have been making headlines across the world.
Dozens of countries have pledged support to the world’s second-most populous nation, donating vital medical supplies such as ventilators and oxygen concentrators. A shipment from Britain arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday with more due later this week.
With vaccine demand outstripping supply in the country, international drug-makers have offered their support too. It is reported that India has so far only administered initial jabs to about 10 per cent of its population.
Thousands of Indian students hoping to return to UK universities for in-person study are reportedly panicking too, after the country was added to Britain’s travel red list, requiring them to pay a hefty £1,750 hotel quarantine and testing fee.
With a large diaspora of Indian people in the UK too, there are many who are concerned about their loved ones and extended family who may be affected by the deadly second wave. The red list means flights to India out of the UK are limited, leaving many worried about the ongoing situation with their relatives.
The UK has a historically close relationship with India, bolstered through a strong bilateral relationship, so it is no surprise to see Britain lending a helping hand.
However, more still needs to be done. During a time of global crisis, countries must collaborate – and India’s plea for help is no different. The UK should continue to support the country in its time of need and offer its services to ensure there is fair access to the Covid-19 vaccination and essential medical supplies.