Meanwhile, the twin factors of rising air pollution and a surge in Covid cases have increased the burden on Delhi’s hospitals with the number of vacant beds shrinking fast and out patient departments

India Coronavirus: Delhi's daily surge in cases continues to breach 7,000 mark

The National Green Tribunal on Monday ordered imposition of a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the national capital region or any other city or town across the country where the average ambient air quality from November 9-10 to the midnight of November 30-December 1 falls under the `poor` and above category. 
 
A bench of NGT Chairperson Adarsh Kumar Goel passed the order on a batch of petition seeking remedial action against the use and sale of firecrackers amid the double whammy of pollution crisis and rising coronavirus infections. 
 
The green tribunal emphasised that citizens were entitled to breathe fresh air, a right cannot be defeated on the ground that enforcement of such right will lead to the closing of such business activity. 
 
It ordered, "There will be total ban against the sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the NCR from midnight of November 9-10, 2020 to the midnight of November 30-December 1, 2020, to be reviewed thereafter." National capital region includes Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Muzaffarnagar, Bhiwani, Karnal, Sonipat, Meerut, Hapur, Charki Dadri, Panipat, Rohtak, Jind, Bhagpat and Bulandshahr. However, the Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday announced that people are allowed to sell and burst firecrackers for two hours on Diwali. 
 
These directions will also apply to all the cities and towns in the country where the average of ambient air quality during November, as per the available data of last year, falls under the `poor` and above category. 
 
"The cities or towns where air quality is `moderate` or below, only green crackers be sold and the timings for use and bursting of crackers be restricted to two hours during festivals, like Diwali, Chatt, New Year or Christmas Eve etc., as may be specified by the concerned state," the green court added. 
 
The bench, also comprising of Judicial Member S.K. Singh and Expert Members Dr. S.S. Garbyal and Dr. Nagin Nanda further ordered that if nothing is specified by the state, timing for imposition of ban will be 8 to 10 p.m. on Diwali and Gurpurb, 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Chatt and 11.55 p.m. to 12.30 a.m. during Christmas and New year eve. 
 
At other places, bans or restrictions are optional for the authorities but if there are more stringent measures under orders of the authorities, the same will prevail. 
 
All States, UTs, Pollution Control Boards and committees have been directed to initiate special drives to contain air pollution from all sources in view of the potential of aggravation of Covid-19. The Chief Secretaries and the DGPs have been asked to issue and circulate orders with appropriate enforcement guidelines. 
 
The Central Pollution Control Board and the State Pollution Control Board or Committees may regularly monitor the air quality during this period which may be uploaded on their respective websites. The CPCB has been asked to compile information on the subject, including the status of compliance of the order from all the states or UTs and file a consolidated report on December 1. 
 
Prior to the order, Odisha, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Delhi and UT Chandigarh had prohibited sale and use of fire crackers to protect the vulnerable groups like elderly, children, persons with comorbidities and others considering the potentially harmful consequences of burning of crackers amidst Covid-19 pandemic situation and approaching winter.

The National Green Tribunal on Monday ordered imposition of a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the national capital region or any other city or town across the country where the average ambient air quality from November 9-10 to the midnight of November 30-December 1 falls under the `poor` and above category.

The National Green Tribunal on Monday ordered imposition of a total ban on sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the national capital region or any other city or town across the country where the average ambient air quality from November 9-10 to the midnight of November 30-December 1 falls under the `poor` and above category. A bench of NGT Chairperson Adarsh Kumar Goel passed the order on a batch of petition seeking remedial action against the use and sale of firecrackers amid the double whammy of pollution crisis and rising coronavirus infections. The green tribunal emphasised that citizens were entitled to breathe fresh air, a right cannot be defeated on the ground that enforcement of such right will lead to the closing of such business activity. It ordered, "There will be total ban against the sale or use of all kinds of firecrackers in the NCR from midnight of November 9-10, 2020 to the midnight of November 30-December 1, 2020, to be reviewed thereafter." National capital region includes Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Muzaffarnagar, Bhiwani, Karnal, Sonipat, Meerut, Hapur, Charki Dadri, Panipat, Rohtak, Jind, Bhagpat and Bulandshahr. However, the Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday announced that people are allowed to sell and burst firecrackers for two hours on Diwali. These directions will also apply to all the cities and towns in the country where the average of ambient air quality during November, as per the available data of last year, falls under the `poor` and above category. "The cities or towns where air quality is `moderate` or below, only green crackers be sold and the timings for use and bursting of crackers be restricted to two hours during festivals, like Diwali, Chatt, New Year or Christmas Eve etc., as may be specified by the concerned state," the green court added. The bench, also comprising of Judicial Member S.K. Singh and Expert Members Dr. S.S. Garbyal and Dr. Nagin Nanda further ordered that if nothing is specified by the state, timing for imposition of ban will be 8 to 10 p.m. on Diwali and Gurpurb, 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Chatt and 11.55 p.m. to 12.30 a.m. during Christmas and New year eve. At other places, bans or restrictions are optional for the authorities but if there are more stringent measures under orders of the authorities, the same will prevail. All States, UTs, Pollution Control Boards and committees have been directed to initiate special drives to contain air pollution from all sources in view of the potential of aggravation of Covid-19. The Chief Secretaries and the DGPs have been asked to issue and circulate orders with appropriate enforcement guidelines. The Central Pollution Control Board and the State Pollution Control Board or Committees may regularly monitor the air quality during this period which may be uploaded on their respective websites. The CPCB has been asked to compile information on the subject, including the status of compliance of the order from all the states or UTs and file a consolidated report on December 1. Prior to the order, Odisha, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Delhi and UT Chandigarh had prohibited sale and use of fire crackers to protect the vulnerable groups like elderly, children, persons with comorbidities and others considering the potentially harmful consequences of burning of crackers amidst Covid-19 pandemic situation and approaching winter.

Complete ban on crackers from midnight to Nov 30 in Delhi-NCR

A steady stream of patients is coming out of New Delhi's brownish atmosphere for treatment at the Breathe Better clinic, where lung specialist Davinder Kundra is confronting what he calls the "double whammy" of deadly smog and the coronavirus.

Kundra is among a growing number of doctors who are worried as the capital's notorious air again hits peak pollution levels while a new pandemic wave is battering hospitals.

Every winter pollution season, demand for beds spikes in the world's most polluted capital because of an increase in lung diseases and chronic bronchitis.

Now the coronavirus has come back after a lull, new cases reaching a record 7,000 a day. Some official predictions say the figure could soon exceed 12,000.

India already has the world's second-highest number of cases -- 8.5 million -- behind the United States.

With studies strongly linking air pollution to increased coronavirus deaths, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said the intense annual smog from farm fires, cars and industry was worsening the pandemic crisis.

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As he fretted over the x-ray of one pneumonia patient, Kundra said he spots at least one coronavirus suspect a day in his small clinic and orders them to get tested.

"Tiny microscopic pollutants act as carriers for the virus and go deep into the lungs. So Delhi is facing a double whammy because of pollution and coronavirus cases," he said.

"Patients who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and are exposed to increased pollution are prone to have more severe forms of the infection."

Smog guns

With more residents on the streets ahead of India's main holiday, Diwali -- the festival of light -- on Saturday, doctors fear dark days ahead for the city of 20 million people.

Kejriwal has banned Diwali firecrackers and launched legal action to get private hospitals to set aside more beds for Covid-19 patients.

The city has deployed smog guns, which blast out clouds of water intended to bring pollution particles to the ground.

But environmental activists such as Vimlendu Jha say the authorities are not serious about the problem, and have demanded suspensions on construction and even some power stations.

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Every winter, Delhi residents carefully scan pollution indexes, which measure tiny but deadly PM 2.5 particles, up to 2.5 microns in width.

A Harvard University study released last month said an increase of just one micron per cubic metre of PM 2.5 causes an 11 percent jump in Covid-19 mortality.

Other studies indicate the problem is particularly bad for poorer people -- such as slum dwellers -- who tend to live nearer pollution sources.

With no respite in sight, Delhi doctors have little choice but to recommend face masks and air purifiers at home, though few in slums can afford such luxuries.

Navjot Kaur, who had started riding her scooter to her job as a lab technician to avoid public transport and the risk of Covid-19, said taking to two wheels had left her exposed to the smog: "Now I get off and my eyes sting, I have to splash water on them."

"The pollution has come quicker this year and seems worse,” she said.

Other Delhi inhabitants such as software engineer Naveen Malhotra, who suffers from a respiratory condition, want to leave the city altogether because "coronavirus attacks the lungs".

He said: "I am just waiting for an opportunity to shift to a place where there is less pollution."

A steady stream of patients is coming out of New Delhi's brownish atmosphere for treatment at the Breathe Better clinic, where lung specialist Davinder Kundra is confronting what he calls the "double whammy" of deadly smog and the coronavirus.

A steady stream of patients is coming out of New Delhi's brownish atmosphere for treatment at the Breathe Better clinic, where lung specialist Davinder Kundra is confronting what he calls the "double whammy" of deadly smog and the coronavirus. Kundra is among a growing number of doctors who are worried as the capital's notorious air again hits peak pollution levels while a new pandemic wave is battering hospitals. Every winter pollution season, demand for beds spikes in the world's most polluted capital because of an increase in lung diseases and chronic bronchitis. Now the coronavirus has come back after a lull, new cases reaching a record 7,000 a day. Some official predictions say the figure could soon exceed 12,000. India already has the world's second-highest number of cases -- 8.5 million -- behind the United States. With studies strongly linking air pollution to increased coronavirus deaths, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said the intense annual smog from farm fires, cars and industry was worsening the pandemic crisis. Also read| ISRO launches PSLV-C49 earth imaging satellite into space As he fretted over the x-ray of one pneumonia patient, Kundra said he spots at least one coronavirus suspect a day in his small clinic and orders them to get tested. "Tiny microscopic pollutants act as carriers for the virus and go deep into the lungs. So Delhi is facing a double whammy because of pollution and coronavirus cases," he said. "Patients who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and are exposed to increased pollution are prone to have more severe forms of the infection." Smog guns With more residents on the streets ahead of India's main holiday, Diwali -- the festival of light -- on Saturday, doctors fear dark days ahead for the city of 20 million people. Kejriwal has banned Diwali firecrackers and launched legal action to get private hospitals to set aside more beds for Covid-19 patients. The city has deployed smog guns, which blast out clouds of water intended to bring pollution particles to the ground. But environmental activists such as Vimlendu Jha say the authorities are not serious about the problem, and have demanded suspensions on construction and even some power stations. Also read| COVID-19: India records 50,356 cases; recovery rate stands at 92.41% Every winter, Delhi residents carefully scan pollution indexes, which measure tiny but deadly PM 2.5 particles, up to 2.5 microns in width. A Harvard University study released last month said an increase of just one micron per cubic metre of PM 2.5 causes an 11 percent jump in Covid-19 mortality. Other studies indicate the problem is particularly bad for poorer people -- such as slum dwellers -- who tend to live nearer pollution sources. With no respite in sight, Delhi doctors have little choice but to recommend face masks and air purifiers at home, though few in slums can afford such luxuries. Navjot Kaur, who had started riding her scooter to her job as a lab technician to avoid public transport and the risk of Covid-19, said taking to two wheels had left her exposed to the smog: "Now I get off and my eyes sting, I have to splash water on them." "The pollution has come quicker this year and seems worse,” she said. Other Delhi inhabitants such as software engineer Naveen Malhotra, who suffers from a respiratory condition, want to leave the city altogether because "coronavirus attacks the lungs". He said: "I am just waiting for an opportunity to shift to a place where there is less pollution."

Delhi fears the worst amid smog cloud and coronavirus wave

The national capital's air quality was recorded in the "severe" category on Saturday morning as farmers in Punjab and nearby regions continued to set their fields on fire to clear crop residue.

The central government's Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the city's air quality is likely to remain "severe" on Diwali as well.

Experts said while meteorological conditions were "moderately" favourable for dispersion of pollutants, a "very high" number of farm fires in Punjab was the primary reason for "severe" air quality.

According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, Delhi's overall air quality index (AQI) was 443 this morning.

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An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 486 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and inhaled into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India.

The levels of PM2.5 — finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream — were 292 g/m3 at 9 am. PM2.5 levels up to 60 g/m3 are considered safe.

Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the number of farm fires in Punjab remains very high (around 4,000) which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and other parts of northwest India.

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It said the AQI is likely to remain in the "upper end of 'very poor' category on November 13 and 'severe' category on November 14 (Diwali)".

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum wind speed was 14 kilometres per hour on Friday and the minimum temperature 11.8 degrees Celsius.

Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2000-farmers-booked-for-stubble-burning-in-up-341001" hreflang="en">2,000 farmers booked for stubble burning in UP</a>

V K Soni, head of IMD's environment monitoring research centre, said, "A very large number of farm fires over Punjab is the primary reason for the severe air quality in the region."

SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was estimated at 21 per cent on Friday. It was 42 per cent on Thursday, the maximum so far this season.

Last year, the contribution of stubble burning to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 per cent on November 1, according to SAFAR data.

The national capital's air quality was recorded in the "severe" category on Saturday morning as farmers in Punjab and nearby regions continued to set their fields on fire to clear crop residue.

The national capital's air quality was recorded in the "severe" category on Saturday morning as farmers in Punjab and nearby regions continued to set their fields on fire to clear crop residue. The central government's Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the city's air quality is likely to remain "severe" on Diwali as well. Experts said while meteorological conditions were "moderately" favourable for dispersion of pollutants, a "very high" number of farm fires in Punjab was the primary reason for "severe" air quality. According to the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, SAFAR, Delhi's overall air quality index (AQI) was 443 this morning. Also read| Indian govt relaxes IT sector guidelines to facilitate 'work from home' An AQI between zero and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". PM10 levels in Delhi-NCR stood at 486 microgram per cubic meter (g/m3) at 9 am, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. PM10 is particulate matter with a diameter of 10 micrometers and inhaled into the lungs. These particles include dust, pollen and mold spores. PM10 levels below 100 ?g/m3 are considered safe in India. The levels of PM2.5 — finer particles which can even enter the bloodstream — were 292 g/m3 at 9 am. PM2.5 levels up to 60 g/m3 are considered safe. Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi said the number of farm fires in Punjab remains very high (around 4,000) which is likely to impact the air quality in Delhi-NCR and other parts of northwest India. Also read| India to reopen universities at 50% capacity; UGC issues guidelines It said the AQI is likely to remain in the "upper end of 'very poor' category on November 13 and 'severe' category on November 14 (Diwali)". According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum wind speed was 14 kilometres per hour on Friday and the minimum temperature 11.8 degrees Celsius. Calm winds and low temperatures trap pollutants close to the ground, while favourable wind speed helps in their dispersion. Also read| 2,000 farmers booked for stubble burning in UP V K Soni, head of IMD's environment monitoring research centre, said, "A very large number of farm fires over Punjab is the primary reason for the severe air quality in the region." SAFAR said the share of stubble burning in Delhi's PM2.5 pollution was estimated at 21 per cent on Friday. It was 42 per cent on Thursday, the maximum so far this season. Last year, the contribution of stubble burning to Delhi's pollution had peaked to 44 per cent on November 1, according to SAFAR data.

Delhi's air quality 'severe', likely to remain so on Diwali

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that high wind speed has helped keep the situation in the city and nearby regions from deteriorating, though the city continues to choke.

New Delhi's air quality touches 'severe' levels

The national capital's air quality was in the very poor category on Tuesday morning, the first time this season, with calm winds and low temperatures allowing accumulation of pollutants.

India: Delhi's air quality hits 'very poor' level, first time this season

Deputy US Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who is on India visit, has pitched for "vision of Pax Indo-Pacifica", describing it as a "region at peace, protected and made prosperous in equal measure by those who comprise the Indo-Pacific".

He was speaking at India-US forum in New Delhi, along with India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla.&nbsp;

Biegun said, "Together we stand for a pluralistic vision that will ensure that our countries, and all the region’s diverse countries, can thrive as sovereign and prosperous nations in a free and open Indo-Pacific. One might call this a vision of a Pax Indo-Pacifica."

Pax is a term used in international relations, describing a zone of peace led by major powers. Historical parallels have been Pax Americana, a long period of peace after the end of World War II overseen by US, or Pax Britannica when British were the dominating power after from the end of Napoleonic wars in 1815 in Europe till around World War I.

Biegun also called for strong support for Quad grouping, citing "we have been too cautious..." and in fact, mentioned it 11 times during his speech. 
&nbsp; 
He said, "Quad is a partnership-driven by shared interests, not binding obligations, and is not intended to be an exclusive grouping. Any country that seeks a free and open Indo-Pacific and is willing to take steps to ensure that, should be welcome to work with us."

Quad is a grouping of four countries -- US, India, Australia and Japan, and earlier this month, the foreign ministers of these countries met in Tokyo.&nbsp;

The grouping of "like-minded democratic countries" is seen suspiciously by China, but amid the pandemic, a number of programmes have been implemented to deal with global issues. 
&nbsp; 
"The United States and India represent multi-ethnic, multi-confessional, democratic societies. Together with Japan and Australia, we are four democratic anchors in an Indo-Pacific region buffeted by changing winds and shifting currents," he said.

He added, "We each have our imperfections, of course, and our own histories that steered our democratic paths, but we share values as well as common interests, and together our democracies represent the voices of a nearly a quarter of the world’s population."

In March, Shringla and Biegun, along with other Quad countries, began weekly calls, and this was later joined by other Indo-Pacific counterparts to discuss and coordinate efforts to combat the pandemic.

Biegun's visit comes days before the India US 2+2 ministerial talks between Indian and US defence and foreign ministers.

Deputy US Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who is on India visit, has pitched for "vision of Pax Indo-Pacifica", describing it as a "region at peace, protected and made prosperous in equal measure by those who comprise the Indo-Pacific".

Deputy US Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, who is on India visit, has pitched for "vision of Pax Indo-Pacifica", describing it as a "region at peace, protected and made prosperous in equal measure by those who comprise the Indo-Pacific". He was speaking at India-US forum in New Delhi, along with India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. Biegun said, "Together we stand for a pluralistic vision that will ensure that our countries, and all the region’s diverse countries, can thrive as sovereign and prosperous nations in a free and open Indo-Pacific. One might call this a vision of a Pax Indo-Pacifica." Pax is a term used in international relations, describing a zone of peace led by major powers. Historical parallels have been Pax Americana, a long period of peace after the end of World War II overseen by US, or Pax Britannica when British were the dominating power after from the end of Napoleonic wars in 1815 in Europe till around World War I. Biegun also called for strong support for Quad grouping, citing "we have been too cautious..." and in fact, mentioned it 11 times during his speech. He said, "Quad is a partnership-driven by shared interests, not binding obligations, and is not intended to be an exclusive grouping. Any country that seeks a free and open Indo-Pacific and is willing to take steps to ensure that, should be welcome to work with us." Quad is a grouping of four countries -- US, India, Australia and Japan, and earlier this month, the foreign ministers of these countries met in Tokyo. The grouping of "like-minded democratic countries" is seen suspiciously by China, but amid the pandemic, a number of programmes have been implemented to deal with global issues. "The United States and India represent multi-ethnic, multi-confessional, democratic societies. Together with Japan and Australia, we are four democratic anchors in an Indo-Pacific region buffeted by changing winds and shifting currents," he said. He added, "We each have our imperfections, of course, and our own histories that steered our democratic paths, but we share values as well as common interests, and together our democracies represent the voices of a nearly a quarter of the world’s population." In March, Shringla and Biegun, along with other Quad countries, began weekly calls, and this was later joined by other Indo-Pacific counterparts to discuss and coordinate efforts to combat the pandemic. Biegun's visit comes days before the India US 2+2 ministerial talks between Indian and US defence and foreign ministers.

In Delhi, deputy US secretary of state pitches for Pax Indo-Pacifica

An alarming report has revealed that coronavirus situation in Delhi, which has been controlled so far, can worsen as the winter season approaches and the national capital could see 15,000 cases on a daily basis.&nbsp;

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) drafted a report named as ''Revised Strategy for control of COVID-19 version 3.0'', said there are three concerning factors that may put excessive pressure on healthcare services, including winter months that make respiratory illnesses severe and the upcoming festive season.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-in-delhi-improves-slightly-stubble-burning-continues-in-neighbour-states-333848">Air quality in Delhi improves slightly, stubble burning continues in neighbour states</a>

The report which is submitted to the Delhi government said that fatality rate in the national capital is 1.9 per cent which is more than the national average of 1.5 per cent and needs to be brought down further for controlling the pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-cases-in-delhi-crosses-3-lakh-death-toll-climbs-to-5653-333529">Coronavirus cases in Delhi crosses 3 lakh; death toll climbs to 5,653</a>

It also expected a lot of patients outside Delhi coming to the city for treatment, which can stress the health system. Patients who are arriving from far away areas are expected to be more serious, the report noted.&nbsp;

It recommended that the government makes arrangements for hospitalisation of one-fifth of these 15,000 people, taking into account severe and moderate cases.&nbsp;

It has also urged the government to control gatherings in view of the festive season.&nbsp;

An alarming report has revealed that coronavirus situation in Delhi, which has been controlled so far, can worsen as the winter season approaches and the national capital could see 15,000 cases on a daily basis.

An alarming report has revealed that coronavirus situation in Delhi, which has been controlled so far, can worsen as the winter season approaches and the national capital could see 15,000 cases on a daily basis. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) drafted a report named as ''Revised Strategy for control of COVID-19 version 3.0'', said there are three concerning factors that may put excessive pressure on healthcare services, including winter months that make respiratory illnesses severe and the upcoming festive season. Also read | Air quality in Delhi improves slightly, stubble burning continues in neighbour states The report which is submitted to the Delhi government said that fatality rate in the national capital is 1.9 per cent which is more than the national average of 1.5 per cent and needs to be brought down further for controlling the pandemic. Also read | Coronavirus cases in Delhi crosses 3 lakh; death toll climbs to 5,653 It also expected a lot of patients outside Delhi coming to the city for treatment, which can stress the health system. Patients who are arriving from far away areas are expected to be more serious, the report noted. It recommended that the government makes arrangements for hospitalisation of one-fifth of these 15,000 people, taking into account severe and moderate cases. It has also urged the government to control gatherings in view of the festive season.

Delhi could see 15,000 Covid-19 cases daily: Report

The overburdened Civil Hospital warned that it was struggling to provide care to twice as many patients as it was designed to accommodate.

COVID-19 Crisis: National capital of India faces shortage of burial space

The Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled against the legality of the Shaheen Bagh protest, saying public spaces cannot be occupied indefinitely by protesters.

Shaheen Bagh Case: Public Places, Roads Can't be Occupied Indefinitely, Says Supreme Court

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday said he has tested positive for COVID-19. 
In a tweet, the 48-year-old AAP leader said he has gone into self-isolation. 
 
"Had got my COVID-19 test done after I had a mild fever. The report has come positive. I have gone into self-isolation. As of now, I have no fever or any other issue. I am fine. By your blessings, I will recover fully and return to work soon",&nbsp;he said in a tweet in Hindi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/delhi-conducting-maximum-covid-19-tests-per-day-per-million-on-earth-cm-kejriwal-327520" hreflang="en">Delhi conducting maximum COVID-19 tests per day per million on earth: CM Kejriwal</a> 
 
Earlier in the day, he did not attend the one-day session of the Delhi Assembly.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday said he has tested positive for COVID-19. In a tweet, the 48-year-old AAP leader said he has gone into self-isolation.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Monday said he has tested positive for COVID-19. In a tweet, the 48-year-old AAP leader said he has gone into self-isolation. "Had got my COVID-19 test done after I had a mild fever. The report has come positive. I have gone into self-isolation. As of now, I have no fever or any other issue. I am fine. By your blessings, I will recover fully and return to work soon", he said in a tweet in Hindi. Also read: Delhi conducting maximum COVID-19 tests per day per million on earth: CM Kejriwal Earlier in the day, he did not attend the one-day session of the Delhi Assembly.

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia tests positive for coronavirus

Twice a day, New Delhi health worker Kamal Kumari receives a flurry of WhatsApp messages from coronavirus patients, containing either a two-digit reading from a tiny medical device or a photo of its glowing display.

She scans the numbers from the 1,000 rupee ($13) oxygen monitor, known as pulse oximeter, checking to ensure they are all above the prescribed 95 mark and then notes them down in her logbook.

"When we didn't have this, we wouldn't know about their oxygen levels," said Kumari, explaining how her team would worry about patients' conditions rapidly worsening when India's capital was badly short&nbsp;of hospital beds. "Now we can find out in time and safely refer patients to the hospital."

Delhi's government has so far distributed pulse oximeters to more than 32,000 people for free, putting them at the heart of a plan to isolate most asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic coronavirus patients in their homes.

The programme was devised in May, when coronavirus cases started surging in the densely populated city of 20 million, sending panicked residents rushing to hospitals.

"If we hadn't done this, there would've been no room to even stand in our hospitals," Delhi's health minister, Satyendar Jain, told Reuters.

With more than 3.5 million infections, India has reported the world's third-highest number of coronavirus cases, and states across the country have deployed a variety of measures to fight the pandemic.

In Delhi, health authorities started noticing "happy hypoxemia" - low blood oxygen levels without any breathlessness - that was leading to complications in coronavirus patients isolated at home, Jain said.

For regular monitoring, doctors told Jain that patients would either have to visit hospitals or use the inexpensive oxygen monitors, many of which are made in China.

Delhi has recorded around 173,000 infections with a little over 4,400 deaths. Only 14,700 cases remain active and many hospital beds are now empty.

PROACTIVE MONITORING

Other cities across the world have also deployed the device.

In May, at the height of its outbreak, Singapore distributed several thousand oximeters to migrant workers isolated in cramped dormitories, which had become an epicentre for the virus's spread.

Singapore's health ministry said oximeters allowed workers "to proactively monitor their own health status and reach out for medical assistance if needed".

In India, too, other places have picked up on Delhi's model. Since late July, the northeastern state of Assam has provided nearly 4,000 oximeters to patients in home isolation.

Some doctors are concerned that patients may not always know how to use the device.

"It's very important to train patients properly on how to use pulse oximeters," said Dr Hemant Kalra, a pulmonologist in New Delhi, adding that cheap, sub-standard oximeters flooding the market were also a problem.

Jain, however, said the government's programme had worked effectively, with not a single fatality among the thousands of patients in home isolation the last month and a half.

Oximeters have also helped cut down on expensive hospitalisation for mild cases, Jain said, saving more than 10 times the device's price for each day in hospital.

On a warm, humid day last week, health worker Kumari pulled on a protective suit, a mask and goggles, before walking down the narrow lanes of the Chirag Delhi neighbourhood.

Together with a similarly dressed colleague, she stopped at Satish Kumar Soni's home to check on him and three family members who were ending their 10-day isolation period, and to collect two government-issued pulse oximeters.

Soni, a 59-year-old jeweller, said the device helped the family ease their fears and anxiety as they slowly recovered.

"It's not that big a disease," he said. "If the oxygen level is fine, then there isn't much danger."

Twice a day, New Delhi health worker Kamal Kumari receives a flurry of WhatsApp messages from coronavirus patients, containing either a two-digit reading from a tiny medical device or a photo of its glowing display.

Twice a day, New Delhi health worker Kamal Kumari receives a flurry of WhatsApp messages from coronavirus patients, containing either a two-digit reading from a tiny medical device or a photo of its glowing display. She scans the numbers from the 1,000 rupee ($13) oxygen monitor, known as pulse oximeter, checking to ensure they are all above the prescribed 95 mark and then notes them down in her logbook. "When we didn't have this, we wouldn't know about their oxygen levels," said Kumari, explaining how her team would worry about patients' conditions rapidly worsening when India's capital was badly short of hospital beds. "Now we can find out in time and safely refer patients to the hospital." Delhi's government has so far distributed pulse oximeters to more than 32,000 people for free, putting them at the heart of a plan to isolate most asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic coronavirus patients in their homes. The programme was devised in May, when coronavirus cases started surging in the densely populated city of 20 million, sending panicked residents rushing to hospitals. "If we hadn't done this, there would've been no room to even stand in our hospitals," Delhi's health minister, Satyendar Jain, told Reuters. With more than 3.5 million infections, India has reported the world's third-highest number of coronavirus cases, and states across the country have deployed a variety of measures to fight the pandemic. In Delhi, health authorities started noticing "happy hypoxemia" - low blood oxygen levels without any breathlessness - that was leading to complications in coronavirus patients isolated at home, Jain said. For regular monitoring, doctors told Jain that patients would either have to visit hospitals or use the inexpensive oxygen monitors, many of which are made in China. Delhi has recorded around 173,000 infections with a little over 4,400 deaths. Only 14,700 cases remain active and many hospital beds are now empty. PROACTIVE MONITORING Other cities across the world have also deployed the device. In May, at the height of its outbreak, Singapore distributed several thousand oximeters to migrant workers isolated in cramped dormitories, which had become an epicentre for the virus's spread. Singapore's health ministry said oximeters allowed workers "to proactively monitor their own health status and reach out for medical assistance if needed". In India, too, other places have picked up on Delhi's model. Since late July, the northeastern state of Assam has provided nearly 4,000 oximeters to patients in home isolation. Some doctors are concerned that patients may not always know how to use the device. "It's very important to train patients properly on how to use pulse oximeters," said Dr Hemant Kalra, a pulmonologist in New Delhi, adding that cheap, sub-standard oximeters flooding the market were also a problem. Jain, however, said the government's programme had worked effectively, with not a single fatality among the thousands of patients in home isolation the last month and a half. Oximeters have also helped cut down on expensive hospitalisation for mild cases, Jain said, saving more than 10 times the device's price for each day in hospital. On a warm, humid day last week, health worker Kumari pulled on a protective suit, a mask and goggles, before walking down the narrow lanes of the Chirag Delhi neighbourhood. Together with a similarly dressed colleague, she stopped at Satish Kumar Soni's home to check on him and three family members who were ending their 10-day isolation period, and to collect two government-issued pulse oximeters. Soni, a 59-year-old jeweller, said the device helped the family ease their fears and anxiety as they slowly recovered. "It's not that big a disease," he said. "If the oxygen level is fine, then there isn't much danger."

How a $13 device is helping Delhi fight the coronavirus

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Gravitas: Row over 'Delhi Riots': Must we ban a book?

The doubling rate of coronavirus infection in the national capital has gone up to over 100 days, the Delhi government said on Thursday as it revealed that 29.1 per cent people who took part in the latest sero-prevalence survey have antibodies against COVID-19.

The national capital recorded 1,215 fresh coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1.57 lakh, while the death toll from the disease mounted to 4,257, a health bulletin issued by the Delhi government said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sees-biggest-1-day-spike-of-69652-coronavirus-cases-tally-crosses-28-lakh-mark-321870">India sees biggest 1-day spike of 69,652 Coronavirus cases, tally crosses 28 lakh-mark</a>

Twenty-two fatalities have been recorded in the last 24 hours, the health bulletin said. This is the highest number of deaths since August 7, when the city recorded 23 fatalities, according to the data.

On the sero-survey, Health Minister Satyendar Jain said 15,000 representative samples were taken in the August 1-7 survey from 11 districts, and the next exercise will begin from September 1.

"In the previous survey, it was found that over 22 per cent people had developed antibodies. Now, the August survey shows it is 29.1 per cent," meaning they had got infected and recovered," Jain said.

The minister also said the prevalence of antibodies found in males was 28.3 per cent and 32.2 per cent in females in the latest survey.

The sero-prevalence found in North East district was 29 per cent, South district 27 per cent, South East 33 per cent and New Delhi 24 per cent, Jain said.

"The rise, rather than the exponential rise is not there. So, people are taking safety precautions it seems. But, we cannot afford to be complacent and lower our guard, even though the positivity rate at present is 7 per cent," Jain said.

The findings also mean that 71 per cent still have chances of getting infection, he said. "Also, experts say, herd immunity is said to have been built in the community if 40-50 per cent or more develop anti-bodies, so we have to be still very watchful," he added.

The exercise was undertaken for a comprehensive assessment of the COVID-19 situation in Delhi and to formulate strategies based on its findings.

The previous sero-prevalance survey done from June 27 to July 10 by the Delhi government in association with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), had used 21,387 samples and found that around 23 per cent of the people surveyed had an exposure to the novel coronavirus.

A statement by the Chief Minister's Office said for the month of August, the mortality rate in Delhi is 1.4 percent, while the country has a mortality rate of 1.92 percent. The recovery rate in Delhi is 90.2 per cent as compared to 72.5 per cent for the rest of the country, it added. 
&nbsp;

"The efforts made by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to deal with the Covid situation in Delhi are showing successful results. Delhi's position is much better than the rest of the country,"&nbsp;the statement said.

The statement also said there is a large drop in test positive rate between June 18 and August 16. Positivity rate of RT-PCR and rapid tests both have seen a sharp decrease, it added.

"At present, the doubling rate of coronavirus in Delhi has gone up to 101.5 days, as compared to the rest of the country which stands at 28.8 days,"&nbsp;the statement said.&nbsp;

 
On July 1, the doubling rate of coronavirus cases in Delhi was the same as with the rest of India at 20 days, it said.

"Since then, the doubling rate of Delhi has been steadily rising. It was 58 days on July 17, around 90 days on August 1, and has currently increased to 101.5 days. In comparison, for the rest of India, the doubling rate has remained between 20 and 27 days since July 1,"&nbsp;it added.

On the positivity rate, the statement said it has dropped for both RT-PCR tests and Rapid Antigen Tests.

"On June 18, 9,088 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 2,804 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 30.85 per cent. In comparison, on August 16, 4,106 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 434 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 10.57 per cent.

"Similarly, on June 18, 3,316 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 247 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 7.42 per cent. In comparison, August 16, 10,882 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 353 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 3.24 per cent,"&nbsp;the statement added.

On an average, the Delhi government roughly conducts 18,000-20,000 tests every day, but a majority of them are rapid tests, which experts say have very low sensitivity.

In a related development, the Delhi government has instructed its Excise department to issue necessary permits to hotels and restaurants to serve liquor.

The hotels and restaurants in the city were closed due to the coronavirus-triggered lockdown since March. Even after restaurants were allowed to start functioning during the 'unlock' phase, they were not allowed to serve liquor.

In a note to the excise commissioner of the Delhi government, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia directed the department to issue necessary permission to serve liquor in the restaurants and clubs by licensees at tables and in hotel rooms.

The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Wednesday approved opening of hotels and restaurants in the city.&nbsp;

The doubling rate of coronavirus infection in the national capital has gone up to over 100 days, the Delhi government said on Thursday as it revealed that 29.1 per cent people who took part in the latest sero-prevalence survey have antibodies against COVID-19.

The doubling rate of coronavirus infection in the national capital has gone up to over 100 days, the Delhi government said on Thursday as it revealed that 29.1 per cent people who took part in the latest sero-prevalence survey have antibodies against COVID-19. The national capital recorded 1,215 fresh coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1.57 lakh, while the death toll from the disease mounted to 4,257, a health bulletin issued by the Delhi government said. Also read | India sees biggest 1-day spike of 69,652 Coronavirus cases, tally crosses 28 lakh-mark Twenty-two fatalities have been recorded in the last 24 hours, the health bulletin said. This is the highest number of deaths since August 7, when the city recorded 23 fatalities, according to the data. On the sero-survey, Health Minister Satyendar Jain said 15,000 representative samples were taken in the August 1-7 survey from 11 districts, and the next exercise will begin from September 1. "In the previous survey, it was found that over 22 per cent people had developed antibodies. Now, the August survey shows it is 29.1 per cent," meaning they had got infected and recovered," Jain said. The minister also said the prevalence of antibodies found in males was 28.3 per cent and 32.2 per cent in females in the latest survey. The sero-prevalence found in North East district was 29 per cent, South district 27 per cent, South East 33 per cent and New Delhi 24 per cent, Jain said. "The rise, rather than the exponential rise is not there. So, people are taking safety precautions it seems. But, we cannot afford to be complacent and lower our guard, even though the positivity rate at present is 7 per cent," Jain said. The findings also mean that 71 per cent still have chances of getting infection, he said. "Also, experts say, herd immunity is said to have been built in the community if 40-50 per cent or more develop anti-bodies, so we have to be still very watchful," he added. The exercise was undertaken for a comprehensive assessment of the COVID-19 situation in Delhi and to formulate strategies based on its findings. The previous sero-prevalance survey done from June 27 to July 10 by the Delhi government in association with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), had used 21,387 samples and found that around 23 per cent of the people surveyed had an exposure to the novel coronavirus. A statement by the Chief Minister's Office said for the month of August, the mortality rate in Delhi is 1.4 percent, while the country has a mortality rate of 1.92 percent. The recovery rate in Delhi is 90.2 per cent as compared to 72.5 per cent for the rest of the country, it added. "The efforts made by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to deal with the Covid situation in Delhi are showing successful results. Delhi's position is much better than the rest of the country," the statement said. The statement also said there is a large drop in test positive rate between June 18 and August 16. Positivity rate of RT-PCR and rapid tests both have seen a sharp decrease, it added. "At present, the doubling rate of coronavirus in Delhi has gone up to 101.5 days, as compared to the rest of the country which stands at 28.8 days," the statement said. On July 1, the doubling rate of coronavirus cases in Delhi was the same as with the rest of India at 20 days, it said. "Since then, the doubling rate of Delhi has been steadily rising. It was 58 days on July 17, around 90 days on August 1, and has currently increased to 101.5 days. In comparison, for the rest of India, the doubling rate has remained between 20 and 27 days since July 1," it added. On the positivity rate, the statement said it has dropped for both RT-PCR tests and Rapid Antigen Tests. "On June 18, 9,088 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 2,804 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 30.85 per cent. In comparison, on August 16, 4,106 RT-PCR tests were conducted of which 434 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 10.57 per cent. "Similarly, on June 18, 3,316 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 247 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 7.42 per cent. In comparison, August 16, 10,882 rapid tests were conducted in Delhi of which 353 positives emerged - a positivity rate of 3.24 per cent," the statement added. On an average, the Delhi government roughly conducts 18,000-20,000 tests every day, but a majority of them are rapid tests, which experts say have very low sensitivity. In a related development, the Delhi government has instructed its Excise department to issue necessary permits to hotels and restaurants to serve liquor. The hotels and restaurants in the city were closed due to the coronavirus-triggered lockdown since March. Even after restaurants were allowed to start functioning during the 'unlock' phase, they were not allowed to serve liquor. In a note to the excise commissioner of the Delhi government, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia directed the department to issue necessary permission to serve liquor in the restaurants and clubs by licensees at tables and in hotel rooms. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Wednesday approved opening of hotels and restaurants in the city.

New sero survey In Delhi reveals 29% people have developed COVID-19 antibodies

Delhi witnessed the heaviest spell of rains this monsoon season on Thursday, which inundated low-lying areas and threw traffic out of gear.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Ayanagar weather station recorded 99.2 mm rainfall, the maximum in the city, during the 24-hour period ending at 8.30 am on Thursday. The Palam and Ridge weather stations gauged 93.6 mm and 84.6 mm precipitation respectively.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-14-killed-57-missing-in-landslide-as-monsoon-rains-pound-kerala-318887#:~:text=At%20least%2014%20people%20were,Friday%2C%20police%20and%20officials%20said.">At least 14 killed, 57 missing in landslide as monsoon rains pound Kerala</a>

The Safdarjung observatory, which provides representative figures for the city, recorded 68 mm rainfall, according to the IMD.

Rainfall recorded below 15 mm is considered light, between 15 and 64.5 mm is moderate and above 64.5 mm is heavy.

Vehicles moved bumper to bumper during the morning rush hours, as the downpour led to heavy waterlogging at key road stretches.

The Delhi Traffic Police reported an incident of a tree being uprooted near the high court, which led to traffic snarls. The Raja Garden and Mayapuri flyovers also witnessed heavy waterlogging.

The incessant rains damaged a drain near the Khaira village T-point on the Dhansa road, where metro construction work is going on, the traffic police said.

The affected 200-metre stretch of the road has been closed for traffic. 
 
Pictures and videos of vehicles and people wading through waist-deep water were widely shared on social media platforms.

The downpour also brought down the rain deficiency in the national capital.

Till Wednesday evening, the Safdarjung observatory had recorded 72 per cent less rainfall than normal in August, the lowest in 10 years, according to the IMD. The shortage reduced to 14 per cent by Thursday morning.

Overall, Delhi has recorded seven per cent more rains than normal in the monsoon season so far.

Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the IMD's regional forecasting centre, said the city witnessed "continuous rains overnight" and more rainfall is expected during the day.

"The axis of monsoon remains close to Delhi-NCR. Also, there is a cyclonic circulation over southwest Uttar Pradesh. Southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea and easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal also fed moisture," he said.

Light rains will continue over the next two to three days, Srivastava said.

Earlier, the IMD had predicted one or two spells of heavy rains between Tuesday and Thursday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Delhi witnessed the heaviest spell of rains this monsoon season on Thursday, which inundated low-lying areas and threw traffic out of gear. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Ayanagar weather station recorded 99.

Delhi witnessed the heaviest spell of rains this monsoon season on Thursday, which inundated low-lying areas and threw traffic out of gear. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Ayanagar weather station recorded 99.2 mm rainfall, the maximum in the city, during the 24-hour period ending at 8.30 am on Thursday. The Palam and Ridge weather stations gauged 93.6 mm and 84.6 mm precipitation respectively. Also read | At least 14 killed, 57 missing in landslide as monsoon rains pound Kerala The Safdarjung observatory, which provides representative figures for the city, recorded 68 mm rainfall, according to the IMD. Rainfall recorded below 15 mm is considered light, between 15 and 64.5 mm is moderate and above 64.5 mm is heavy. Vehicles moved bumper to bumper during the morning rush hours, as the downpour led to heavy waterlogging at key road stretches. The Delhi Traffic Police reported an incident of a tree being uprooted near the high court, which led to traffic snarls. The Raja Garden and Mayapuri flyovers also witnessed heavy waterlogging. The incessant rains damaged a drain near the Khaira village T-point on the Dhansa road, where metro construction work is going on, the traffic police said. The affected 200-metre stretch of the road has been closed for traffic. Pictures and videos of vehicles and people wading through waist-deep water were widely shared on social media platforms. The downpour also brought down the rain deficiency in the national capital. Till Wednesday evening, the Safdarjung observatory had recorded 72 per cent less rainfall than normal in August, the lowest in 10 years, according to the IMD. The shortage reduced to 14 per cent by Thursday morning. Overall, Delhi has recorded seven per cent more rains than normal in the monsoon season so far. Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the IMD's regional forecasting centre, said the city witnessed "continuous rains overnight" and more rainfall is expected during the day. "The axis of monsoon remains close to Delhi-NCR. Also, there is a cyclonic circulation over southwest Uttar Pradesh. Southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea and easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal also fed moisture," he said. Light rains will continue over the next two to three days, Srivastava said. Earlier, the IMD had predicted one or two spells of heavy rains between Tuesday and Thursday.

Delhi rains: Heaviest spell this monsoon season so far; capital city grapples with waterlogging woes 

The number of deadly coronavirus infection cases in India has crossed 16 lakh mark with the highest single-day spike of 55,079 positive cases &amp; 779 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Total cases stand at 16, 38,871 including 5, 45,318 active cases while 10, 57,806 have been cured/discharged. 35,747 people lost their lives to the virus in the country so far, Union Health Ministry said.

The country is gearing for the third phase of Unlock from August 1 as the Centre has allowed a few relaxations to the existing lockdown norms in an effort to boost economic activity.&nbsp;

Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases.&nbsp;

However, infections are rising rapidly in states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Yet, India’s recovery rate continues to rise and now stands at 64.5 percent.

Meanwhile, the total number of cases around the world stood at 17,237,642, while the fatalities rose to 671,909, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update.

The World Health Organization (WHO, on Thursday issued a statement warning young people and urging them to stay home and stay safe.

“We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again: young people are not invincible,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news briefing in Geneva.

The fears of possibility of second wave have even forced some countries to reimpose travel bans and prepare for another complete lockdown if need be.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of deadly coronavirus infection cases in India has crossed 16 lakh mark with the highest single-day spike of 55,079 positive cases & 779 deaths in the last 24 hours.

The number of deadly coronavirus infection cases in India has crossed 16 lakh mark with the highest single-day spike of 55,079 positive cases & 779 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total cases stand at 16, 38,871 including 5, 45,318 active cases while 10, 57,806 have been cured/discharged. 35,747 people lost their lives to the virus in the country so far, Union Health Ministry said. The country is gearing for the third phase of Unlock from August 1 as the Centre has allowed a few relaxations to the existing lockdown norms in an effort to boost economic activity. Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Delhi and Gujarat have reported the highest number of cases. However, infections are rising rapidly in states like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. Yet, India’s recovery rate continues to rise and now stands at 64.5 percent. Meanwhile, the total number of cases around the world stood at 17,237,642, while the fatalities rose to 671,909, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed in its latest update. The World Health Organization (WHO, on Thursday issued a statement warning young people and urging them to stay home and stay safe. “We’ve said this before and we’ll say it again: young people are not invincible,” WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news briefing in Geneva. The fears of possibility of second wave have even forced some countries to reimpose travel bans and prepare for another complete lockdown if need be. (With inputs from agencies)

Highest single-day hike takes India's tally past 16 lakh, 5, 45,318 active cases

India is setting grim milestones each day, but the national capital is giving some positive news amid the gloom as the recovery rate in Delhi is inching closer to 90 per cent.&nbsp;

According to the data by the state health ministry, Delhi on Thursday recorded 1,093 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections to 134,403 cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-1-million-recovered-in-india-from-coronavirus-health-ministry-317101">Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry</a>

Delhi also confirmed 29 new fatalities, bringing the death toll to 3,936.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-extends-lockdown-in-containment-zones-till-aug-31-317102">West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till Aug 31</a>

However, the national capital's recovery rate increased to 89 per cent, which is 35 per cent more than the national average of 64.4 per cent.&nbsp;

Delhi, which was witnessing a sharp rise in coronavirus cases after the government started to phase out the nationwide lockdown, on Monday recorded its lowest cases, 619 in two months.

However, it has recorded over 1,000 cases in the last two days, raising concerns that the deadly outbreak might have still not peaked.&nbsp;

With over 1 million tests so far, Delhi also ranks high in terms of testing at state level. Nearly half of 1 millions tests in Delhi are being done in the past one month, reflecting a ramp up in testing.

As many of 10,743 are active COVID-19 cases in Delhi.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India is setting grim milestones each day, but the national capital is giving some positive news amid the gloom as the recovery rate in Delhi is inching closer to 90 per cent.

India is setting grim milestones each day, but the national capital is giving some positive news amid the gloom as the recovery rate in Delhi is inching closer to 90 per cent. According to the data by the state health ministry, Delhi on Thursday recorded 1,093 fresh cases in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of infections to 134,403 cases. Also read | Over 1 million recovered in India from coronavirus: Health ministry Delhi also confirmed 29 new fatalities, bringing the death toll to 3,936. Also read | West Bengal extends lockdown in containment zones till Aug 31 However, the national capital's recovery rate increased to 89 per cent, which is 35 per cent more than the national average of 64.4 per cent. Delhi, which was witnessing a sharp rise in coronavirus cases after the government started to phase out the nationwide lockdown, on Monday recorded its lowest cases, 619 in two months. However, it has recorded over 1,000 cases in the last two days, raising concerns that the deadly outbreak might have still not peaked. With over 1 million tests so far, Delhi also ranks high in terms of testing at state level. Nearly half of 1 millions tests in Delhi are being done in the past one month, reflecting a ramp up in testing. As many of 10,743 are active COVID-19 cases in Delhi.

With over a million tests and recovery rate nearly at 90%, Delhi offers India hope

Delhi's COVID-19 recovery rate improved to over 86 per cent and active cases dipped to 13,681, lowest in the last seven weeks, even as 1,025 fresh instances were recorded on Friday, the health bulletin said.

With 32 fresh fatalities, the death toll climbed to 3,777.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reports-under-1000-coronavirus-cases-first-time-in-over-35-days-314723">Delhi reports under 1,000 coronavirus cases first time in over 35 days</a>

The Friday bulletin said 1,866 patients recovered from the deadly virus. The number of people recovered from the infection now stand at 1,10,931. The coronavirus count in the city now stands at 1,28,389.

The recovery rate has improved to 86.4 per cent, said a tweet by the Chief Minister's Office. The national recovery rate stands at 63.45 per cent.

The active cases have been lowest since June 4, which had recorded 14,456 active cases.

Of the 15,475 dedicated beds in the city for coronavirus patients, 12,265 are vacant. Similarly, of the 9,554 beds in dedicated COVID Care Centres, 8,032 are vacant.

The number of containment zones in the city stand at 702.

In related developments, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain took a meeting with senior officers of the Health department to discuss the sero-surveillance, enhancement of ICU beds, and other issues related to the management of COVID-19.

On Wednesday, he announced that a sero-surveillance will be conducted in the city every month to formulate better policies for tackling COVID-19.

Principal Secretary Health Vikram Dev Dutt also held a meeting with Nodal officers, Medical Directors, Medical Superintendents of the Delhi government dedicated COVID hospitals to discuss the steps taken to reduce mortality due to coronavirus.

A decision was also taken that there should be no delay in shifting of patients from triage area to ICU.

In a related development, the two plasma banks for COVID-19 operated by the Delhi government are getting tepid response, doctors said, attributing it to unfounded apprehensions about associated health risks and the tendency to put off donation for any future need of family members.

Just about 320 people have donated plasma in Delhi since the initiative began on July 2, whereas more than 1,00,000 COVID-19 patients have recovered till July 23, officials said.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said the government would provide plasma for free and people do not need to buy or sell it.

The chief minister and other senior members of the government have repeatedly appealed to people, who have recovered from COVID-19, to donate plasma to other patients.

But the response to the calls has been muted at the first-of-its-kind 'plasma bank', inaugurated by Kejriwal at the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) here on July 2, and another one opened a week ago at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital, a dedicated coronavirus facility. 
&nbsp;

Delhi's COVID-19 recovery rate improved to over 86 per cent and active cases dipped to 13,681, lowest in the last seven weeks, even as 1,025 fresh instances were recorded on Friday, the health bulletin said.

Delhi's COVID-19 recovery rate improved to over 86 per cent and active cases dipped to 13,681, lowest in the last seven weeks, even as 1,025 fresh instances were recorded on Friday, the health bulletin said. With 32 fresh fatalities, the death toll climbed to 3,777. Also read | Delhi reports under 1,000 coronavirus cases first time in over 35 days The Friday bulletin said 1,866 patients recovered from the deadly virus. The number of people recovered from the infection now stand at 1,10,931. The coronavirus count in the city now stands at 1,28,389. The recovery rate has improved to 86.4 per cent, said a tweet by the Chief Minister's Office. The national recovery rate stands at 63.45 per cent. The active cases have been lowest since June 4, which had recorded 14,456 active cases. Of the 15,475 dedicated beds in the city for coronavirus patients, 12,265 are vacant. Similarly, of the 9,554 beds in dedicated COVID Care Centres, 8,032 are vacant. The number of containment zones in the city stand at 702. In related developments, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain took a meeting with senior officers of the Health department to discuss the sero-surveillance, enhancement of ICU beds, and other issues related to the management of COVID-19. On Wednesday, he announced that a sero-surveillance will be conducted in the city every month to formulate better policies for tackling COVID-19. Principal Secretary Health Vikram Dev Dutt also held a meeting with Nodal officers, Medical Directors, Medical Superintendents of the Delhi government dedicated COVID hospitals to discuss the steps taken to reduce mortality due to coronavirus. A decision was also taken that there should be no delay in shifting of patients from triage area to ICU. In a related development, the two plasma banks for COVID-19 operated by the Delhi government are getting tepid response, doctors said, attributing it to unfounded apprehensions about associated health risks and the tendency to put off donation for any future need of family members. Just about 320 people have donated plasma in Delhi since the initiative began on July 2, whereas more than 1,00,000 COVID-19 patients have recovered till July 23, officials said. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday said the government would provide plasma for free and people do not need to buy or sell it. The chief minister and other senior members of the government have repeatedly appealed to people, who have recovered from COVID-19, to donate plasma to other patients. But the response to the calls has been muted at the first-of-its-kind 'plasma bank', inaugurated by Kejriwal at the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) here on July 2, and another one opened a week ago at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan (LNJP) Hospital, a dedicated coronavirus facility.

Delhi's COVID-19 recovery rate improves to 86% as active cases stand at lowest in seven weeks

Mansoor Khan and his wife Latifa Bibi have been collecting scraps of plastic and other items at a towering landfill on the outskirts of New Delhi for nearly 20 years. The $5 daily earnings enable their three children to go to school, in search of a better future than their parents' lives amid the stench of rotting garbage. But over the past few months, biomedical waste has been piling up - a result, experts say, of the novel coronavirus pandemic and a huge risk for those who work there.

Delhi scavengers risk lives to sift coronavirus debris

Mumbai, one of the worst hit cities in terms of rising cases, is deploying ‘smart helmets’ to combat the spread of the disease

Your Story: Mumbai receive high-tech 'Smart helmets' to combat COVID-19

India reported the highest one-day spike of 45,720 coronavirus cases and 1,129 deaths this morning, government data shows.

COVID-19: India records 45,000+ cases, 1,129 deaths in last 24 hours

A National Centre for Disease Control surveillance of the Delhi population has shown that 23.48 per cent of the people have developed antibodies to the disease

Your Story: 1 in 4 Delhi Residents infected with COVID-19

Delhi on Monday reported 954 new coronavirus cases in the 24 hour-period, first day since June 1 when less than 1,000 infections were found.&nbsp;

This comes on a day when the Delhi government once again urged the Centre to accept that&nbsp;community spread has started in the country.&nbsp;

With the latest figures revealed by the officials, the total number of cases in the national capital stands at 123,747, which includes 15,166 active cases.&nbsp;

In the last 24 hours, 35 people died of the deadly virus in Delhi, taking the overall toll to 3,663.&nbsp;

Earlier today, Sanjay Singh, senior leader of AAP (ruling party of Delhi) urged Central government to acept community spread in the country and increase the scale of testing.&nbsp;

"The Centre needs to accept that community spread is taking place and ramp-up testing on a large scale and more testing kits must be made available. They must replicate what the Delhi government did," Singh, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, said, reported news agency PTI.&nbsp;

In the last two weeks, the coronavirus infections have reduced signficantly in the national capital and the daily recoveries are higher than the number of cases detected.&nbsp;

On Monday, 1,784 patients recovered from the COVID-19 infections, taking the overall tally to 104,918. &nbsp; 
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Delhi on Monday reported 954 new coronavirus cases in the 24 hour-period, first day since June 1 when less than 1,000 infections were found. This comes on a day when the Delhi government once again urged the Centre to accept that community spread has started in the country.

Delhi on Monday reported 954 new coronavirus cases in the 24 hour-period, first day since June 1 when less than 1,000 infections were found. This comes on a day when the Delhi government once again urged the Centre to accept that community spread has started in the country. With the latest figures revealed by the officials, the total number of cases in the national capital stands at 123,747, which includes 15,166 active cases. In the last 24 hours, 35 people died of the deadly virus in Delhi, taking the overall toll to 3,663. Earlier today, Sanjay Singh, senior leader of AAP (ruling party of Delhi) urged Central government to acept community spread in the country and increase the scale of testing. "The Centre needs to accept that community spread is taking place and ramp-up testing on a large scale and more testing kits must be made available. They must replicate what the Delhi government did," Singh, who is also a Rajya Sabha MP, said, reported news agency PTI. In the last two weeks, the coronavirus infections have reduced signficantly in the national capital and the daily recoveries are higher than the number of cases detected. On Monday, 1,784 patients recovered from the COVID-19 infections, taking the overall tally to 104,918.

Delhi reports under 1,000 coronavirus cases first time in over 35 days

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Monday said there is a community spread of coronavirus."There is spread through community, now it`s very technical to say either it`s local or community spread. Source of many (COVID-19 positive patients) remains unknown after test. Let`s leave the technical battle on Centre to decide over community spread," Jain said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/covid-19-tamil-nadu-4538-new-cases-delhi-crosses-120000-mark-314066" hreflang="en">COVID 19: Tamil Nadu 4,538 new cases; Delhi crosses 120,000 mark</a> 
 
Jain, who was down with COVID-19 earlier, has recovered and joined work from today.Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal while sharing the information on Twitter said, "Our Health Minister Satyendar Jain has recovered. He will join work from today." 
 
"He was always on the field visiting hospitals and meeting health workers and patients. He contracted corona. After one month, he joins back today," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/delhi-cm-kejriwal-holds-meeting-with-members-of-parliament-to-discuss-covid-19-situation-313854" hreflang="en">Delhi CM Kejriwal holds meeting with members of parliament to discuss COVID-19 situation</a> 
 
Last month, the minister was admitted to Delhi`s Max Hospital after he was tested positive for COVID-19. After his condition worsened, the minister was administered plasma therapy. 
 
There are currently 122,793 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delhi. Of them, 103,134 have recovered while 3,628 have succumbed to the virus.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Monday said there is a community spread of coronavirus."There is spread through community, now it`s very technical to say either it`s local or community spread.

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain on Monday said there is a community spread of coronavirus."There is spread through community, now it`s very technical to say either it`s local or community spread. Source of many (COVID-19 positive patients) remains unknown after test. Let`s leave the technical battle on Centre to decide over community spread," Jain said. Also read: COVID 19: Tamil Nadu 4,538 new cases; Delhi crosses 120,000 mark Jain, who was down with COVID-19 earlier, has recovered and joined work from today.Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal while sharing the information on Twitter said, "Our Health Minister Satyendar Jain has recovered. He will join work from today." "He was always on the field visiting hospitals and meeting health workers and patients. He contracted corona. After one month, he joins back today," he added. Also read: Delhi CM Kejriwal holds meeting with members of parliament to discuss COVID-19 situation Last month, the minister was admitted to Delhi`s Max Hospital after he was tested positive for COVID-19. After his condition worsened, the minister was administered plasma therapy. There are currently 122,793 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delhi. Of them, 103,134 have recovered while 3,628 have succumbed to the virus.

Community spread of COVID-19 has begun: Delhi Health Minister

Delhi's first plasma bank to help treat novel coronavirus started functioning on Thursday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal saying that COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery.

Addressing an online media briefing, the chief minister issued numbers - 1031 and 8800007722 where people can contact for the donation of plasma to save the lives of COVID-19 patients.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-delhi-is-now-discharging-more-patients-than-it-is-admitting-309952">Coronavirus: Delhi is now discharging more patients than it is admitting</a>

The government has set up the plasma bank at the state-run Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences.

Kejriwal hoped that COVID-19 deaths will decrease due to plasma therapy.

Those aged between 18 and 60 and weighing not less than 50 kg can donate their plasma for COVID-19 patients, he added.

Plasma therapy involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those into a coronavirus infected patient to help kick-start the immune system to fight the infection.&nbsp;

Delhi's first plasma bank to help treat novel coronavirus started functioning on Thursday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal saying that COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery.

Delhi's first plasma bank to help treat novel coronavirus started functioning on Thursday, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal saying that COVID-19 patients can donate their plasma 14 days after recovery. Addressing an online media briefing, the chief minister issued numbers - 1031 and 8800007722 where people can contact for the donation of plasma to save the lives of COVID-19 patients. Also read | Coronavirus: Delhi is now discharging more patients than it is admitting The government has set up the plasma bank at the state-run Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences. Kejriwal hoped that COVID-19 deaths will decrease due to plasma therapy. Those aged between 18 and 60 and weighing not less than 50 kg can donate their plasma for COVID-19 patients, he added. Plasma therapy involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID-19 and transfusing those into a coronavirus infected patient to help kick-start the immune system to fight the infection.

Arvind Kejriwal inaugurates Delhi's first plasma bank

On Thursday morning, Delhi's Covid-19 case count was at 70,390. Mumbai had 69,528 cases.

Is New Delhi becoming India's New York?

For the first time, diesel price has surpassed the petrol as fuel rate hiked for the 18th day in a row on Wednesday.

For the first time, Diesel costlier than petrol in Delhi

The national capital has been put on high alert by police officials following intelligence inputs about a probable terror attack, a report said on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-delhi-records-3000-new-cases-tamil-nadu-cases-near-60000-307521">COVID 19: Delhi records 3,000 new cases, Tamil Nadu cases near 60,000</a>

Intelligence agencies have alerted police on the possibility of four to five people entering Delhi to carry out a terror attack, sources told news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-delhi-health-minister-satyendar-jains-condition-deteriorates-put-on-oxygen-support-307073">COVID-19: Delhi health minister Satyendar Jain's condition deteriorates; put on oxygen support</a>

They further said that all the 15 police districts along with elite units of the Crime Branch and the Special Cell have been put on high alert.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/home-ministry-fixes-rate-for-covid-19-treatment-at-private-hospitals-in-delhi-307037" hreflang="en">Home Ministry fixes rate for COVID-19 treatment at private hospitals in Delhi</a>

Special vigil is being kept on Delhi's borders and a close watch is being maintained in market areas and hospitals, the sources added.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The national capital has been put on high alert by police officials following intelligence inputs about a probable terror attack, a report said on Sunday. Also read | COVID 19: Delhi records 3,000 new cases, Tamil Nadu cases near 60,000 Intelligence agencies have alerted police on the possibility of four to five people entering Delhi to carry out a terror attack, sources told news agency PTI.

The national capital has been put on high alert by police officials following intelligence inputs about a probable terror attack, a report said on Sunday. Also read | COVID 19: Delhi records 3,000 new cases, Tamil Nadu cases near 60,000 Intelligence agencies have alerted police on the possibility of four to five people entering Delhi to carry out a terror attack, sources told news agency PTI. Also read | COVID-19: Delhi health minister Satyendar Jain's condition deteriorates; put on oxygen support They further said that all the 15 police districts along with elite units of the Crime Branch and the Special Cell have been put on high alert. Also read | Home Ministry fixes rate for COVID-19 treatment at private hospitals in Delhi Special vigil is being kept on Delhi's borders and a close watch is being maintained in market areas and hospitals, the sources added.

Delhi on high alert following intelligence of possible terror attack

After State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting on Saturday, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that Lieutenant General Anil Baijal`s apprehensions regarding home-isolation for COVID-19 patients have been resolved, and the system will continue.

Taking to Twitter, Sisodia wrote in Hindi: "All the apprehensions of LG regarding home isolation were resolved in the SDMA meeting and now the system of home isolation will continue. We thank LG sir for this. Under the leadership of our Chief Minister Kejriwal Ji, the people of Delhi will not have any problem."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-covid-19-treatment-charges-in-private-hospitals-capped-by-indias-home-affairs-ministry-307212">Also watch|&nbsp;Delhi: COVID-19 treatment charges in private hospitals capped by India's Home Affairs Ministry</a>

"After stopping the home isolation, LG in his order yesterday also stated to stop the work of the company which was counseling the patients at home. Now this facility will continue till Monday and its other options will be discussed again on Monday with the preparations of the Health Department," he wrote in another tweet.

In another tweet, Sisodia stated, 100 per cent COVID beds shall be subsidized up to an upper limit of 60 per cent of total hospital capacity.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Saturday rolled back his order on mandatory five-day institutional quarantine period for COVID-19 positive patients stating that only those patients need to undergo institutional quarantine who do not require hospitalisation and do not have adequate facilities for home isolation.

After State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting on Saturday, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that Lieutenant General Anil Baijal`s apprehensions regarding home-isolation for COVID-19 patients have been resolved, and the system will continue.

After State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting on Saturday, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that Lieutenant General Anil Baijal`s apprehensions regarding home-isolation for COVID-19 patients have been resolved, and the system will continue. Taking to Twitter, Sisodia wrote in Hindi: "All the apprehensions of LG regarding home isolation were resolved in the SDMA meeting and now the system of home isolation will continue. We thank LG sir for this. Under the leadership of our Chief Minister Kejriwal Ji, the people of Delhi will not have any problem." Also watch| Delhi: COVID-19 treatment charges in private hospitals capped by India's Home Affairs Ministry "After stopping the home isolation, LG in his order yesterday also stated to stop the work of the company which was counseling the patients at home. Now this facility will continue till Monday and its other options will be discussed again on Monday with the preparations of the Health Department," he wrote in another tweet. In another tweet, Sisodia stated, 100 per cent COVID beds shall be subsidized up to an upper limit of 60 per cent of total hospital capacity. Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal on Saturday rolled back his order on mandatory five-day institutional quarantine period for COVID-19 positive patients stating that only those patients need to undergo institutional quarantine who do not require hospitalisation and do not have adequate facilities for home isolation.

LG's apprehensions resolved in SDMA meeting, home-isolation for COVID-19 patients to continue in Delhi

Before the coronavirus hit New Delhi, Mohammad Aamir Khan was a taxi driver making a living in the Indian capital. But after work dried up during a nearly three-month lockdown to prevent the spread of the virus, a friend suggested he take on a part-time job at perhaps the only booming business in the country - driving a private ambulance.

"Someone has to do it" - Indian taxi driver gets behind wheel of ambulance amid spiking virus cases

As India is witnessing a steep rise in coronavirus figures, the situation in national capital Delhi has turned serious with a huge rise in infections, overwhelming its health system.&nbsp;

However, a young cinematographer, along with his mother, is ensuring that the poor in the capital city get some protection against the deadly virus.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-bodies-of-suspected-covid-19-cases-to-be-handed-over-to-relatives-without-waiting-for-lab-confirmation-mohfw-305871">Delhi: Bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases to be handed over to relatives without waiting for lab confirmation: MoHFW</a>

Sourav Das and his mother Laxmi have so far distributed more than 2,000 masks, all stitched by the latter to the needy for free.&nbsp;

<img alt="Sourav Das" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c9b8e941-8007-4382-91be-179ea302fe14" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_130.jpg" />

(Sourav Das installs a free mask dispenser | Photo Credit: PTI )

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-use-500-railway-coaches-as-hospital-facilities-to-fight-coronavirus-305801">Delhi to use 500 railway coaches as hospital facilities to fight coronavirus</a>

"These are reusable cotton masks. Every day, around 25-40 masks are made and put into boxes at five locations at Chittaranjan Park," Sourav said, reported PTI.&nbsp;

Sourav himself has designed the boxes in a manner that ensures contactless access. His uncle is providing cotton cloth for the masks, which are sewn by Laxmi during her free time.&nbsp;

People living in the nearby area have welcomed the initiative, which is called "Pick One, Stay Safe", and some shopkeepers are also sending their customers to pick up maks from these boxes.&nbsp;

"Since masks are a must these days, I ask customers who forget their masks to take one from the box," said Naveen Chandrasheel, who runs a salon in the area.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi reported 2,224 new coronavirus cases and 56 deaths, late on Sunday, bringing the total number of infections to 41,182 and fatalities to 1,327.

This is the highest single-day surge in the capital city and came on the day when Union Home Minister Amit Shah after holding a meet with CM Arvind Kejriwal said that the Centre will step in to increase testing and beds for the treatment of patients.&nbsp;

As India is witnessing a steep rise in coronavirus figures, the situation in national capital Delhi has turned serious with a huge rise in infections, overwhelming its health system.

As India is witnessing a steep rise in coronavirus figures, the situation in national capital Delhi has turned serious with a huge rise in infections, overwhelming its health system. However, a young cinematographer, along with his mother, is ensuring that the poor in the capital city get some protection against the deadly virus. Also read | Delhi: Bodies of suspected COVID-19 cases to be handed over to relatives without waiting for lab confirmation: MoHFW Sourav Das and his mother Laxmi have so far distributed more than 2,000 masks, all stitched by the latter to the needy for free. (Sourav Das installs a free mask dispenser | Photo Credit: PTI ) Also read | Delhi to use 500 railway coaches as hospital facilities to fight coronavirus "These are reusable cotton masks. Every day, around 25-40 masks are made and put into boxes at five locations at Chittaranjan Park," Sourav said, reported PTI. Sourav himself has designed the boxes in a manner that ensures contactless access. His uncle is providing cotton cloth for the masks, which are sewn by Laxmi during her free time. People living in the nearby area have welcomed the initiative, which is called "Pick One, Stay Safe", and some shopkeepers are also sending their customers to pick up maks from these boxes. "Since masks are a must these days, I ask customers who forget their masks to take one from the box," said Naveen Chandrasheel, who runs a salon in the area. Meanwhile, Delhi reported 2,224 new coronavirus cases and 56 deaths, late on Sunday, bringing the total number of infections to 41,182 and fatalities to 1,327. This is the highest single-day surge in the capital city and came on the day when Union Home Minister Amit Shah after holding a meet with CM Arvind Kejriwal said that the Centre will step in to increase testing and beds for the treatment of patients.

'Pick One, Stay Safe': Young cinematographer and mother distribute free masks in Delhi

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