According to M Anjana, District Collector, Alappuzha, at least 1,500-2,000 beds from the houseboats
Houseboats, much sought after by tourists for cruising across the backwaters, are likely to double up as Covid-19 isolation wards in Alappuzha district in Kerala, if the need arises.
The administration is exploring the possibility of using houseboats as isolation units in the event of any emergency, district collector, M Anjana said.
“We have identified 5,806 beds with attached toilets in Alappuzha from hotels, resorts, hostels and lodges to accommodate patients, if there is a need, as there are not many hospitals in the district,” she said.
Discussions with the Houseboat Owners Association have been held and they were willing to provide their boats, she said.
“We can easily get at least 1,500-2,000 beds from the houseboats,” she said, adding this was an option that can be worked out.
Various issues like logistics, bringing the boats to one point, etc have to be streamlined, she said.
Presently, 7,046 people are under observation in Alappuzha for the infection of whom 11 are in hospitals.
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