Pune: The order by the state government over increasing COVID-19 testing to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is a new challenge for the administration.

The administration of both the cities have been asked to ready manpower ahead of the rising cases in the spread of the novel virus. The state government has also asked the civic bodies to check the other logistics required for the initiative as well has enquired for the door-to-door survey in the containment zones. The COVID-19 testing has to be increased to 65 per cent in December, 70 per cent in January, and 75 per cent in February, Dr Pradeep Vyas, Principal Secretary of State Public Health Department has stated.

Also, the RT-PCR kits must be provided. The letter also issued that to cover the expenses, the administration may use CSR funds or local administrative funds.

The number has indeed come down after recoveries increased. Currently, there are around 3,000 tests per day in Pune city (PMC) of which 2,000 are RT-PCR. Meanwhile, both the cities have been given a target of 5,840 and 3,730 tests respectively.

It has been recommended that the state which is one of the worst-hit by the COVID-19 must conduct at least 1.58 lakh COVID tests daily.