Mumbai: RT-PCR test mandatory for those returning from the UAE

All travellers arriving in Mumbai from the United Arab Emirates will now have to undergo a RT-PCR test, after which a decision would be taken regarding 7-day home quarantine. This was informed by the metropolis' civic body in view of rising cases of Omicron variant in the city.
As per the reports, the decision was taken after Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner IS Chahal chaired a meeting with deans, civic officials, and medical superintendents of hospitals. This meeting took place after Chahal held a meeting with Maharashtra Tourism and Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray, earlier in the day.

As reported earlier, the civic administration had made RT-PCR tests mandatory for those landing in Mumbai from Dubai on December 24, which has now been extended to the entire UAE.
Chahal also asked respective officials to ensure separate arrangements of 500 beds are made each at BKC Jumbo COVID-19 centres and NESCO to help international travellers, who don’t need medical treatment, and are not showing any symptoms undergo quarantine. Further, as per the statement, those who are ready to pay will be allowed to stay in hotels.

The release stated, “Those who are found infected with the COVID-19 in the rapid test, will now have to undergo regular RT-PCR tests. If the test is negative, then segregation should be done as per prevailing rules, whereas if the test is positive then the decision should be taken for isolation or hospitalisation as per the prevailing rules. Samples of regular RT-PCR tests should be sent for genome sequencing," the release informed.

The Civic Chief added that Chahal has also directed administrative wards to appoint flying squads to ensure guidelines set for New Year parties, events, and celebrations are strictly followed.

Additionally, the BMC Commissioner directed concerned officials to appoint additional trainee doctors in ward level war rooms as soon as possible.