The district administration has made arrangements to open a counter at sadar hospital in Dhanbad to sell masks and sanitizers from March 17.
The decision to open the counter with the help of stockists and wholesalers of surgical equipment and medicines was taken during a meeting held under the chairmanship of sub-divisional officer Raj Maheswaram at his office on Monday. Stockists and wholesalers from different parts of the district were present.
Maheshwaram said: “The decision to open counters at the sadar hospital from Tuesday has been taken to prevent black marketing of the products, as the Centre has put sanitizers and masks under Essential Commodities Act, 1955, till June 2020. The counter will ensure availability of masks and sanitizers at correct price.”
On whether people will have to submit certificates or documents to procure masks and sanitizers, Maheshwaram said: “No. But those planning to travel long distances by train or other modes will be provided masks on priority basis.”
The SDO also had a meeting with stake holders such as BCCL, MPL, SAIL, DVC, Indian Medical Association, Federation of Dhanbad Zilla Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Rotary Club, to discuss steps to devise a joint strategy to fight the outbreak of novel coronavirus.
IMA state president A.K. Singh said: “We have assured all possible help to the district administration in the fight against novel coronavirus (Covid-19) but at the same time asked the administration to make arrangements for coronavirus-related tests at Dhanbad level. He has assured to make the arrangement for tests.”