Watch: Shillong Sikhs set up oxygen langar for COVID-19

Shillong: If there is one community that has always helped those in need, it is the Sikhs. The Sikhs of Shillong have already set up oxygen langar to provide aid to the people, as and when and if such a situation arises in the city and the state.

The Sikh community has prepared 5-bed oxygen langar open for any person from any caste, creed or religion.

Speaking with EastMojo, General Secretary of the Shri Guru Singh Sabha, Dr Kamaljeet Singh, said that they converted the Sikh centre into a makeshift room for oxygen, which will take care of COVID-19 patients with respiratory problems.

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“We have arranged this just in case there are patients who are not getting any beds in the hospitals. Or, if they run short of oxygen and beds,” said Dr Kamaljeet.

Although the current occupancy is 5, Dr Kamaljeet said that it could be increased to 10 or 15 depending on oxygen availability.

So far, the community has spent Rs 2.5 lakh on setting up the oxygen langar. Further investments will also be made on other necessities like disposables, PPE kits, etc. Apart from these, there will be recurring expenses like stay and food, Dr Kamaljeet said.

Ever since the news of Sikhs of Shillong setting up the oxygen langar emerged on social media, it has garnered a lot of attention. “The general public is happy and overwhelmed with this small venture that we have done. The Deputy Commissioner has also posted a video on social media, which we are very thankful for,” said Dr Kamaljeet.

He added that he has been getting calls frequently, asking if they needed help or contributions. He said that they welcome any contribution since the place is not a full-fledged hospital, but just a Gurudwara and they are trying their best.

“If people want to contribute to this cause, they are most welcome,” said Dr Kamaljeet.

He did add that he hopes the situation doesn’t worsen, and the current lockdown would help flatten the rise in COVID-19 cases.