The only refrigerator used for the storage of vaccines at the DPHO has not functioned since Gamgad Small Hydropower Project in the district experienced technical snag that triggered the disruption of power supply last month. The DPHO does have an electricity generator to run the refrigerator, but it struggles to manage fuel.[break]
The vaccines for polio, rabies, measles, diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus worth Rs. 1 million would be damaged if the fuel cannot be managed by the next two days, DPHO officials admit.
When enquired about the problem, DPHO officials only tried to fudge the issue - by passing the buck to each other.
Staff at the vaccine section said that Dhanna Buda, the storekeeper, who is responsible for managing fuel, failed to deliver. The storekeeper, however, argued that as there is shortage of kerosene in the district.
“There is shortage of kerosene in the local market and, on top of that, we are yet to settle previous debts. Now tell me, how can I manage the fuel in such a situation?" he quipped.
He said the DPHO is preparing to import the fuel from the neighboring district of Jumla.
Roshan Lal Chaudhary, chief at the DPHO, meanwhile, maintained that the DPHO is seeking an alternative option to preserve the vaccines.
But he did not elaborate on the alternative plan.
However, a reliable source at the DPHO, said that the office is finding hard to manage fuel for the generator as the local traders are reluctant to supply fuel to the office as it is yet to settle previous dues worth around Rs. 1, 00,000 - mainly due to the mismanagement of the budget.
Related story
Popularity of Chinese Vaccines in China’s Neighbors
