Gurugram : A unique technology initiative that uses WhatsApp and focuses on providing relief services to COVID19 patients has seen over 6000 citizens benefitting during the second wave of the pandemic. The WhatsApp Chatbot was deployed on May 5 and led to the creation of an Integrated Command and Control Centre for managing the COVID19 pandemic that was inaugurated by Sh M L Khattar, Hon’ble Chief Minister Haryana.
This first-of-its kind initiative is a citizen-focussed initiative with the aim to provide maximum services to COVID19 patients to make their stay at home as comfortable as possible, while making every effort to address the needs of those who needed specialized medical facilities.
Deputy Commissioner and District Nodal Authority Dr Yash Garg said that all the nodal agencies providing relief were integrated with the WhatsApp Chatbot to ensure speedy and efficient delivery of relief to the people.
Besides connecting patients to a pool of over 300 doctors for online consultation, it also offered services on RT-PCR tests, information and assistance on hospital bed availability, medicines, free ambulance service, oxygen re-supply among others. The Chatbot was the first of its kind in India that integrated several government and private agencies to offer so many services to the people.
Nodal agencies such as the District Administration, Municipal Corporation of Gurugram, Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority, Gurugram Police and citizens volunteers were integrated to provide and synergetic response to citizens.
The Chatbot was created for free by a team from WhatsApp Incorporated, DeepStrat, The Dialogue, MyUpchar, Meddo and Dunzo.
Citizens can send a message to the WhatsApp number 9643277788, which automatically responds in Hindi and English and offers a range of COVID19-related services. Depending on what the citizens opts for, the service is activated by an integrated team and delivered in the shortest possible time.
The Chatbot also helped disseminate authentic information regarding the COVID19 pandemic.
According to Dr Garg the second wave of the COVID19 pandemic has proved to be much deadlier than the first wave. Therefore, it is extremely important to provide accurate information to the citizens related to the pandemic, that was enhanced by the WhatsApp chatbot.
The Deputy Commissioner, Gurugram also appealed to the people to be alert and not pay attention to any rumours. The WhatsApp Chatbot provides authentic information related to COVID19 and also provides a range of services that will help the citizens. He also encouraged citizens to reach out through the District Helpline 1950. He also appealed to those affected by COVID19 to seek timely and proper medical assistance and not to self-medicate, but only take those medicines prescribed by a doctor.
