Pelni Preps Ship as Covid-19 Isolation Center in Makassar
Translator
Editor
21 July 2021 14:47 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - State-owned ferry operator PT Pelayaran Nasional Indonesia or Pelni is preparing the Umsini ship as the floating isolation center for Covid-19 patients in Makassar. The facility is the brainchild of the Mayor of Makassar following the surge in the virus infections in the city.
With the support of the Transportation Ministry in collaboration with the Makassar City Government, the ship will be the first city’s floating isolation site for asymptomatic patients and those developing mild symptoms.
“The company believes it can support Makassar city administration to control Covid-19 spread,” said Pelni President Director Insan Purwarisya L. Tobing in a written statement on Wednesday, July 21.
The ship will dock around Lae Lae Island while accommodating isolating patients aboard. It has a capacity for 804 patients and 60 health workers mobilized by the city administration.
The ship’s operation follows the health protocol policy of 50 percent of the total capacity. The crew on board will also be replaced every two weeks.
Additionally, Pelni will provide several public facilities such as beds, polyclinics, and jogging tracks. Access to the top deck will be opened as an area for patients to sunbathe and exercise.
Read: Surabaya Mulls Setting Up Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium as Covid-19 Isolation Center
CAESAR AKBAR