Harshita
NEW DELHI: In order to better prepare the country to fight against the novel COVID-19, the Indian Railways is preparing to covert its train coaches into isolation wards.
Rajiv Chaudhary, the General Manager of North Central Railway (NCR), said that after consultations with medical professionals, the Railways are trying to convert a coach at the coaching depot in New Delhi into isolation wards. He said, "A sleeper coach of a train is being converted and improvised into isolation wards for patients suffering from Covid-19. Such a plan can help us be well-prepared to meet any emergency."
Also Read: COVID-19 In India: Cases Cross 700 With 17 Casualties
Besides, all Railway divisions have identified a ward or building for setting up isolation beds for Covid-19 patients. Similarly, Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is devising a plan that if an emergency arises, how can they serve meals in different parts of the country and hospitals.
Ajeet Kumar Singh, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of NCR, said, "NCR has taken necessary steps to ensure operational safety to mitigate any possibility of disruption in goods trains." He further informed that In big yards, where maintenance requires concentration of staff, the speed of goods trains has been reduced to 15 kmph to sustain required operation along with the maintenance of social distancing.
NCR is also considering an extension of the mandatory Paramedical Medical Examination (PME) of the safety category and running staff in order to boost its medical facilities.
Also Read: Students Pelt Stones On AP Police After Being Stopped At Telangana Border
"NCR is also imparting training to its paramedical staff on for Covid-19 related procedures, especially ventilators. Videos posted on the ministry of health and family welfare's website are being used to train staff", said Rajiv Chaudhary.
