As we all know that the Mahakumbh is organized in Haridwar and the duration of Kumbh Mela is reduced this year due to the view of Coronavirus. In order to review and test pilgrims, a central team led by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is organized. However, the director of NCDC visited Uttarakhand on March 16-17 to review the public and medical health measures undertaken by the state for the ongoing Kumbh Mela in Haridwar.
Also Read: Kumbh Mela 2021: History, Shahi Snan Date, Trains & Everything Else You Need To Know
As per the letter written to Uttarakhand Chief Secretary, the Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan comes to find that over 12 states in India have shown a rapid increase in Covid-19 cases in the last few weeks. Pilgrims are most likely to visit the ongoing Kumbh Mela in Haridwar from these states.
The ministry said that “It is also noted that that there is a possibility in an increase of Covid-19 cases after the auspicious Shahi Snan days during the Kumbh Mela.”
Union Health Secretary Report
The Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan also said that as per the central team report, 15-20 pilgrims and 10-20 locals are being reported Covid-19 positive every day.
Also Read: COVID-19 SOPs (issued by Uttarakhand State Government)
The ministry also said in his statement that this positive rate for Covid-19 is more likely to upsurge during Kumbh.
Conducting 50,000 Rapid Antigen tests and 5,000 RTPCR tests is not enough as there is a heavy pilgrim footfall in Haridwar.
The state government should follow the SOPs methodically issued by the ministry. Additionally, must know the signage to circulate the key points of these SOPs; especially among the local population, in case of symptoms suggestive of Covid-19; develop an awareness of self-reporting, establishing systems to generate early warning signals and monitoring trend of ILI/ ARI cases with the help of Emergency Operational Centres.
Also Read: COVID-19 SOPs (issued by Central Government)
In addition to this, it is also urged to target particularly enhanced testing in high transmission areas, regular testing of frontline workers and make sure the operationalization of appropriate critical care treatment facilities.
Stay tuned for further details!
