By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 29: Ferndale Apartment Society, the largest housing complex in the state, has set an example on how to fight and deal with the pandemic without putting pressure on the state government or the Health department that have been overburdened with the COVID-19 caseload.
The executive committee of the society has formed the Ferndale Apartment COVID-19 Response Task Force (FCRTF) to handle any emergency situation arising out of the pandemic.
Dozens of about 600 residents of the society had tested positive during the first wave in 2020. This time, 27 residents have been infected and of the 10 active cases now, eight are in home isolation and two are hospitalised.
FCRTF nodal officer, Bijoy A Sangma, said they have tried to create a model that could be replicated by other societies and even by the localities on how to help the residents or members of the society during this pandemic on their own.
He said the task force is working very closely with the disaster emergency and medical advisory team of the society. Volunteers assist the task force in procuring oxygen cylinders, oxygen concentrators and other medical equipment in case of any emergency.
“The task force is looking after the needs of those members who are under home isolation,” Sangma said, adding that the society is ready to help in a small way anyone who requires assistance.
The society’s former president, Donkupar Syiem, said they are preparing for multiple waves of the pandemic since no one knows what to expect.
According to him, the government resources are being stretched and medical staff are being overwhelmed with their work.
He also said their medical team has about 10 doctors who are helping the nodal officer in the management and containment of the complex.