New Delhi [India], May 22 (ANI): As the need for liquid medical oxygen (LMO) transport increased following the surge in COVID-19 cases, the Department of Roads and Highways on Saturday asked states and territories to l ‘Union to create a pool of drivers with adequate training, holders of a “dangerous goods” license.

500 of these drivers must be made available immediately and the number of drivers must be increased to 2,500 within the next two months.

As part of a strategy that could be adopted to create an additional pool, the ministry suggested that the driver should be quickly qualified with training in handling hazardous chemicals and handling LMOs through a short and apprenticeship program, and train HMV licensees in hazardous areas. chemicals and handling of LMOs through a short program (3/4 days) and an apprenticeship.

“These training modules have been designed with the assistance of the Logistics Sector Skills Council (LSSC), the Indian Chemical Council (ICC), the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the oxygen manufacturers. medical, ”the ministry said. and UTs recommend that some local HMV / Hazardous Chemical licensed drivers opt for these training programs.

“In addition, a list of all qualified drivers would be available on a digital platform and the services of these trained drivers could be used to transport cryogenic LMO tankers,” he said.

He was also informed by the ministry that LOX tanker drivers could benefit from a special COVID vaccination campaign and be given priority for admission and treatment in hospitals, in case they are. found infected with COVID. (ANI)