Grave loss

Sir — The remains of at least 176 turtles, 20 dolphins and four whales have washed up on the shores of Sri Lanka following the sinking of an acid-laden ship in late May. This is only a fraction of the actual numbers as many marine mammals sink to the sea-bed after dying. The acid spill has caused irreparable damage to the environment. The shipping company must be held accountable for the incident.

Anamika Saha,
Calcutta

Not enough

Sir — The pandemic has been difficult for everybody, but few groups of people have fought it as closely and as relentlessly as healthcare workers (“Special place”, July 2). Doctors all over the world have laid down their lives in the fight against Covid-19. In India, with its overwhelmed healthcare system and lack of basic amenities, doctors, nurses and other healthcare personnel have been pushed to the brink.

Since the outbreak of Covid-19 early last year, the medical community has worked tirelessly at the expense of their own well-being and that of their families. It was thus heartening to see the prime minister, Narendra Modi, pay tribute to healthcare professionals on National Doctors’ Day. Around the same time, the audience at Wimbledon gave a rousing ovation to the scientist designing the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine and the staff of the National Health Service on the first day of the tournament.

The pandemic exposed the many failures of governments across the world. While appreciating the services of the medical community is essential, it is not enough. There is an urgent need for a substantial increase in resources and a commitment towards a scientific mindset. The Indian government has, so far, failed on both counts.

S.S. Paul,
Nadia

Sir — In the last year and a half, countless doctors have lost their lives to Covid-19. It is absolutely imperative that we recognize their service, but not just on National Doctors’ Day.

India suffered from an acute shortage of oxygen and other life-saving drugs just about a month back as a result of government apathy and oversight. Thus, the gratitude expressed by the prime minister seems somewhat hollow. Had the government prepared for the second wave of the pandemic, many healthcare professionals would still be alive. One can only hope that the government will not repeat its mistakes.

Surabhi Jain,
New Delhi