Thiruvananthapuram, May 8 :Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday said the role played by our local governments in controlling and preventing the first wave of the Covid outbreak was unparalleled and during this second phase also, they have an important proactive role to play by being at the forefront of Covid prevention.

He said this during an interaction with the representatives of the local body of the state this day.

The Chief Minister also directed the local bodies to mobilise the people and use all their might to form a strong defence in the fight against Covid by joining hands with the government.

“There is a shortage of medical facilities in some local bodies. There are not enough CFLTCs or CLTCs or centres for those who cannot afford treatment at home.

“Such issues must be addressed urgently. Suitable places to open Covid treatment centres should be identified and prepared immediately.

“As part of this, adequate health workers, volunteers and cleaners should be found. Ward level committees should be formed in all the wards.”

“It is imperative that they visit their houses in their wards and make an assessment of the requirements on what needs to be done at the panchayat level or at the municipal-corporation level or at a higher administrative level.”

“Those under observation at home need to be constantly monitored. Mortality can be reduced if their health is closely monitored.”

Ward level committees should also take responsibility for doing awareness campaigns through social media.

They need a clear understanding of when patients need medical attention and when hospital services are needed. Ambulance service should be ensured on this basis. They can also effectively intervene to avoid congestion at vaccination centres.

“It is also proposed to open 24-hour control rooms at the local body levels which would have complete information about the centres where Covid treatment is available. They should have medical teams.”

“Doctors working in the government and private sector can be included in the local medical team. Ward level committees should ensure that no one goes without food or medicines especially during the lockdown,” the CM said.(UNI)