Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) Standing Committee Chairman Sanjay Bhoir requested the Municipal Commissioner on May 5, 2021 to allow for Covid-19 vaccination centres at the society-level to avoid crowding at government centres.
“We appeal to the TMC to speak to the central and state government to allow for vaccination camps to be set-up in individual societies under TMC’s jurisdiction,” said Bhoir in the letter.
Earlier, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) allowed big societies, clubhouses, industrial parks, banks, big companies to tie-up with Covid-19 hospitals to carry out the vaccination drive. Bhoir argued that if the TMC can similarly provide such camps in Thane’s society and clubhouses then both people over 18 years and the elderly can benefit greatly.
“With the help of special nurses and doctors’ associations such an initiative can greatly further the vaccination drive. People won’t have to stand in long lines and avoid crowding. The complaints about a lack of vaccines will also cease,” he said.
Thane citizens of late have complained about the long lines outside Covid-19 centres that hinder the vaccination process. Bhoir stated that this matter needs to be addressed fast in face of a potential third wave of coronavirus as well as this year’s monsoon season.
Around two weeks ago, the TMC made preparations for two jumbo vaccination centres: one at Kausa stadium and the other at Vartak Nagar. Officials said the centres would follow the same model as the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) facility. But this does not negate the need for society-level centres.
On May 6, a stampede broke out at the BKC centre despite separate waiting areas and entry points for different age groups and citizens who registered via the Cowin app. People grew anxious as the day progressed with fights breaking out eventually resulting in pushing. As per a Newslaundry report, the unfortunate incident occurred due to a combination of vaccine shortage and unrest among citizens.
Even in Thane, around 40 out of 56 vaccination centres are functioning regularly due to limited supply. Residents, in some areas, reported groups of 500 people crowding local centres even before the work hours began, eager to avail the 50-100 daily vaccines distributed.
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