PANJIM, April 18 -- The surge in the COVID-19 cases in Goa, resulting in an increase in the requirement of oxygen, has compelled the State government to ban the supply of oxygen to other States with immediate effect.

The decision, taken to accommodate the local requirements, was announced on Saturday morning by Health Minister Vishwajit Rane.

"In view of the rising COVID cases in the State of Goa, the requirement for oxygen has gone up. Export on oxygen cylinders outside the State has therefore been banned with immediate effect. All the industrial oxygen requirements will be diverted towards the health services, Goa Medical College and COVID-19 hospitals. Necessary directions have been issued to Secretary Health to coordinate with the r...