West Asia crisis has hit supply of medicines: Dinesh Gundu Rao

Dinesh Gundu Rao noted that suppliers handling orders for the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Limited have sought an additional 30 days to deliver certain medicines, citing disruptions caused by the crisis.

Mangaluru: District in-Charge Minister and Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said that the supply of medicines has been affected due to the ongoing West Asia crisis.

He noted that suppliers handling orders for the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Limited have sought an additional 30 days to deliver certain medicines, citing disruptions caused by the crisis. Pharmaceutical companies are also facing production challenges due to shortages of essential ingredients. Rao warned that if the crisis continues, shortages of LPG and diesel could further impact manufacturers. However, he reassured that there are no major issues at present and there is no need for panic.

He added that petroleum products are interconnected, and the crisis could also affect the supply of bitumen. Urging the Centre to explore alternative sources beyond West Asia for crude oil and LPG, he said the Union government has a major responsibility to safeguard public interests.

On the issue of auto LPG shortage, he said the government must clearly explain the situation and outline alternative arrangements. He also pointed out that the prices of some medicines have increased due to rising production costs and urged the Centre to prevent further hikes.