Since April 2021, India has been ravaged by the second wave of COVID-19. The toll has been staggering with daily new cases sometimes reaching over 400,000 and as of May 20, nearly 300,000 have perished.
As the second wave took hold of the nation, BAPS Charities fortified its efforts throughout its global network and partner organizations. Not only were fundraisers started across the world, but efforts were successfully made to provide critical material and equipment which aided the heroic efforts of partner hospitals in India.
The staff and volunteers at each of these locations are working tirelessly to ensure that the best possible care and treatment is provided to the afflicted. From providing intensive care services including ventilators, oxygen, and contemporary and appropriate medical therapy to the most critically ill to providing humanitarian support with meals and other daily necessities to all those affected by the pandemic, the frontline heroes are doing all they can to alleviate suffering. The number of beds available for treatment at each facility are as follows:
| Hospital | Location | Beds |
| BAPS Pramukh Swami Hospital | Surat | 150 |
| BAPS Yogiji Maharaj Hospital | Amdavad | 50 |
| BAPS Shastriji Maharaj Hospital | Atladara (Vadodara) | 135 |
| BAPS Hospital | Botad | 60 |
As of May 14, 2021, the hospitals have successfully treated and discharged 3,518 individuals.
In addition to these four locations, volunteers are working in collaboration with the GMERS Hospital from Gotri, which has set up a temporary 500-bed facility in Atladara (Vadodara).
Funds collected by BAPS Charities throughout the world are also being used to further procure oxygen concentrators and other essential equipment and approved medicines to continue supporting those in need. Anand Barot, a lead volunteer assisting with efforts on the ground in India said, “The situation here is dire. Medical staff and volunteers are doing everything possible to provide the best treatment and care for those suffering from the virus. We understand that our work is just beginning, and we continue to explore other ways to help.”
Nilkanth Patel, President of BAPS Charities USA added, “We want to thank all those who have provided equipment and monetary support so that we can help as many people as possible in India. This is a crisis beyond comprehension and to hear what is happening is heartbreaking for one and all. We are humbled here at BAPS Charities by the trust so many have placed in us. Your support has provided timely and significant relief to those who need it. We are certainly continuing our relief efforts through our partners.”
