India sends O2 concentrators and LMO to help Indonesia in their fight against COVID-19

INS Airavat reached Indonesia on Sunday with 300 oxygen concentrators and 100 MT liquid medical oxygen. In fight against COVID-19 pandemic, ship brought five cryogenic containers of liquid oxygen and concentrators to support country. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s Health Ministry reported that Coronavirus cases rose by 45,416 in past 24 hours, taking numbers to 3,127,826. death toll reached 82,013 in numbers by ding 1,415 in last 24 hours. However, a total of 39,767 patients have been recovered, raising total number of recoveries to 2,471,678.

Indonesia faces oxygen crises due to COVID-19 pandemic

Despite Indonesia converting nearly its entire oxygen production to medical use as COVID-19 patients struggle to brea, it is still hoping to secure an equate amount of breathing aid. While speaking about current oxygen crisis, Ketut Suarjaya, he of Bali's health agency told a state news agency that Bali, which is a famous tourist spot, has been facing an acute shortage of oxygen since July 14. He ded that condition is getting even worse with each passing day. Suarjaya claimed that Bali needs around 113.3 tonnes of oxygen, while hospitals only have 40.5 tonnes. Oxygen shortages have also been reported from or corners of country. 

In order to fulfil cope with ongoing crisis, government has urged international agencies and approached several countries including China, United States, Singapore, and Australia to help m. Earlier in May this year, Indonesia donated 3,400 oxygen cylinders and concentrators to India when a brutal outbreak ravaged country. As a humanitarian gesture, India also pledged to help neighbouring country that shares cultural ties with world's largest democracy. Meanwhile, Indian Naval Ship, Airavat, on Saturday arrived at Port of Jakarta in Indonesia, carrying essential Covid-19 supplies. ship brought five cryogenic containers containing 100 MT of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) and 300 oxygen concentrators to support Indonesia in its fight against ongoing pandemic, a statement from Defence Ministry said.

India and Indonesia relations

Both countries enjoy close cultural and commercial relationships. y have been working toger in maritime domain towards a safer Indo-Pacific.  countries also carry out joint naval exercises in form of bilateral exercises and coordinated patrols. According to data released by MEA in 2016, Indonesia has emerged to become second-largest tring partner of India in ASEAN region. While India was largest buyer of crude palm oil from Indonesia in 2016.

(With ANI inputs)

(IMAGE: ANI)