Prajavani News: KUMARAPATNAM

Grasim Industries Ltd., Harihar,  a part of the Aditya Birla Group, has exemplified the phrase ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ through its community service initiatives.

When the number of COVID-19 infections were on a steady rise in Haveri, Grasim proactively coordinated with the district authorities and medical experts, and provided its oxygen storage infrastructure for use during the crisis.

The infection was spreading rapidly and most hospitals were facing an acute shortage of oxygen. Grasim joined hands with the District Administration and obtained permission from Drug Controller, Bengaluru, to supply oxygen within the legal framework.

“Grasim’s Management has always stepped up during a crisis to help the community at large. Until the pandemic ends, we will be committed to bringing succour to those affected and work together with the district authorities”, said Ajay Kumar Gupta, Unit Head. Grasim, Kumarapatnam.

Over 150 tonnes of oxygen has been supplied by Grasim to date, saving lives of more than 200 patients across government and private hospitals in Haveri, Ranebennur Taluka and Devanagari district. Moreover, arrangements to refill the oxygen cylinders regularly have also been made.

“Grasim’s Harihar unit was already equipped to store 30 tonnes of liquid oxygen which was primarily used for industrial production.  However, the oxygen cylinder filling system was not available and the personnel were not trained on these small cylinders. We promptly hired trained staff and also trained in-house employees to take over the task quickly”, said P. Srinivasan from the Public Relations department.

Grasim has also set a target of setting up a 600 litres per minute infusion plant at the Ranebenur Taluk Government Hospital by August 2021. The plant costing around INR 1 Crore is already under construction.

When the search for oxygen plants began, Grasim quickly offered its services to the government. Arun Kumara Pujar, MLA, Ranebennur Assembly Constituency is all praises for the company’s proactive response. He says, “When we requested Grasim’s Management to provide the oxygen plant support, they promptly agreed. Their efforts saved many lives and brought relief to those in need. People will always remember their help.”