Due to the serious humanitarian crisis in India caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, ŠKODA AUTO is planning an aid package consisting of both in-kind and monetary donations totalling one million euros. ŠKODA AUTO is in cooperation with the Volkswagen Group and is the brand taking responsibility as a regional employer and helping members of the ŠKODA family in these tough times.
ŠKODA AUTO leads the Volkswagen Group’s activities in the Indian market and has a long-standing relationship of trust with local partners.
Thomas Schäfer, CEO of ŠKODA AUTO, says, “We are in contact with our colleagues in India every day. They know best what is most urgently needed at the moment. We are working hard to secure the appropriate relief supplies, including oxygen tanks, and transport them to India as quickly as possible. We are grateful that we can help our Indian friends on the ground this way. In these challenging circumstances, the ŠKODA family stands together.”
The second wave of coronavirus in India has created an uncontrollable increase in the number of infections. As a result, there is a drastic shortage of hospital beds, medical oxygen, and antiviral medication. The Czech car manufacturer SKODA AUTO being a local employer in Pune, Aurangabad and Mumbai have a responsibility within the country and is donating one million euros to help deplete this crisis.
ŠKODA AUTO’S donation
ŠKODA AUTO’S donation will include medical supplies and a monetary donation to the German Red Cross. This is intended to meet as many different aids needs as possible in the crisis region. The medical equipment and material consist of oxygen generators and liquid oxygen tanks, which are essential for inland transport. The Czech car manufacturer is working non-stop to acquire the relief supplies at such short notice and is delivering them to the crisis region as soon as possible, despite the current circumstances caused by the pandemic. The Indian Red Cross is expected to handle the distribution locally.
Gurpratap Boparai, Managing Director ŠKODA AUTO Volkswagen India Private Limited (ŠAVWIPL), says “The country is going through an unprecedented situation with the unexpected rise in COVID-19 cases, leading to extreme stress on the healthcare facilities in India. ŠKODA AUTO’s generous donation, both material and financial support will provide some relief to those affected. ”
