COVID-19: Rajnath Singh reviews efforts of cantonment boards

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday reviewed the preventive measures undertaken by 62 Cantonment Boards situated all over the country to prevent the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Director General Defence Estates (DGDE) Deepa Bajwa assured the defence minister of the commitment of cantonment boards in the fight against the pandemic. Deepa Bajwa gave an overview of the ongoing actions in all cantonments, inter alia, maintenance of essential services of sanitation, medical services, and water supply.

Going all out against COVID-19

The DG also apprised the minister about the steps taken for the identification of hospitals, schools, and community halls for quarantine facilities and continuous measures for public awareness among residents; enforcement of social distancing. Provision of food and dry ration has also been made for the vulnerable sections in association with NGOs and social organisations. Singh was also informed that Chief Executive Officers of cantonment boards are maintaining regular liaison with district administrations and Local Military Authorities (LMAs).

'Maintain the highest standards of hygiene'

Rajnath Singh also noted that Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar has taken up the matter with the Chief Secretaries for release of State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) funds to the cantonment boards also. While acknowledging the efforts, the defence minister stressed that cantonment boards should ensure the highest standards of sanitation and hygiene and fumigation specifically in the populated Civil Areas. He stressed that special care should be taken to provide food and shelter for the vulnerable sections of migrants and daily wagers.