MANDALAY-----As the COVID-19 cases already have increased in Mandalay, the Rescue and Social Welfare Organizations which took the COVID patients to the Quarantine Centers and Hospitals already faced shortages of fuel oil and Personal Protective Equipments, say Rescue Organizations.

“Most vehicles are being used in transport services. Currently, the numbers of vehicle running increased because there have been increased numbers of COVID-19 cases in Mandalay. All rescue teams which helped in the transport services for the COVID-19 patients and its related persons already faced fuel shortage. As for the rescue teams, they helped in the social welfare tasks with the cash assistance of the donors. If there is no well wisher, they can’t operate. Moreover, personal protective equipment is needed,” said Wai Phyo Han, Chairman of Yinbattu Nyinaung Rescue Organization in Mandalay Region.

“The daily cost of fuel is Ks 15,000 per car. If 7 vehicles will be running, the fuel cost will be over Ks 100,000 per day. During COVID-19 outbreak, we need more well wishers. Moreover, we offered the PPE donors through our Facebook page. In the Mandalay region, there are many social welfare organizations. We don’t want to donate cash and PPE for only organization,” said Kaung Htet Aung from Mani Sala Social Welfare Association in Maha Aungmyae Township.

The Mandalay Regional Government Committee shared the personal protective equipment to all rescue and social welfare organizations during previous months. But, it was not inconvenient because the PPE suits are low quality.

Now, Mandalay Region has seen COVID-19 cases significantly with over 429 during five days starting from November 11th to 15th. The quarantine centers filled with the suspect persons. So, plans are underway to convert the Basic Education High Schools into the quarantine centers.