KATHMANDU: The government has warned of stern action against those who store oxygen and oxygen cylinders — essential for the treatment of COVID-19 infected patients — under the Infectious Diseases Act, 2020.

The Ministry of Health and Population issued a statement saying that the use of oxygen and oxygen cylinders was found used in industries, which is against the government’s directives.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry’s Joint Spokesperson Sameer Kumar Adhikari, a large number of oxygen cylinders have been found to be empty or filled and stored by industrialists and stakeholders.

Similarly, the Ministry of Health has requested to make the cylinders available in hospitals to save the lives of Nepali citizens.

The Ministry has stated that action will be taken against the industries and businesses violating the decision of the Government of Nepal.