Mumbai chemists’ strike: FDA sets up control rooms in city to avoid medicine supply shortage

The FDA said it has coordinated with medicine retailers. Representational Pic/File/iStock

Ahead of the nationwide strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) on May 20, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has activated emergency measures across Mumbai to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential medicines and life-saving drugs.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the FDA's Brihanmumbai division said that elaborate arrangements have been made to avoid disruption in medicine supply during the one-day bandh. Citizens have also been urged not to panic or engage in unnecessary bulk purchases of medicines.

The FDA said it has coordinated with medicine retailers, hospital-linked pharmacies, and 24-hour medical stores across the city to ensure patients continue receiving medicines without interruption.

Officials have instructed medical shop owners to maintain adequate stock of essential medicines before the strike. The department is also working closely with district authorities, police, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation health officials, private hospitals, and doctors' associations to minimise inconvenience to patients.

Focus on emergency healthcare

According to the administration, special attention is being given to ensuring that at least a few pharmacies remain operational in every zone of Mumbai during the strike.

The move is aimed at helping senior citizens, patients with chronic illnesses, and emergency medical cases access medicines without difficulty.

"The administration is making all possible efforts to ensure that the supply of medicines remains smooth and uninterrupted. Citizens should not indulge in panic buying," the FDA said in its statement.

Nodal officers appointed across Mumbai

To manage complaints and emergency situations, the FDA has activated regional control rooms and appointed nodal officers for different parts of Mumbai.

Ajay Mahale will oversee South Mumbai areas from Colaba to Byculla, while Hemant Aade has been assigned regions including Mahalaxmi, Worli, Wadala, and Sewri.

Pr. R. Rajat will supervise Kurla, Ghatkopar, Chembur, Govandi, and nearby eastern suburbs. Sheetal Deshmukh has been assigned Vikhroli, Powai, Chandivali, and Mulund areas.

For western suburbs including Khar, Juhu, Andheri, Jogeshwari, Goregaon, and Malad, coordination will be handled by Poonam Salunkhekar and Rakesh Edlabadkar. Aarti Kamble has been appointed for Kandivali, Borivali, and Dahisar.

Appeal to chemists

The FDA has appealed to chemist associations to prioritise patient welfare and continue the supply of essential medicines despite the protest.