In one of the many effects the COVID-19 lockdown has had, Vasai-Nalasopara and Virar are facing an acute shortage in blood banks. With blood banks in Mumbai nearly running dry, hospitals in the neighbouring cities have been immensely stressed.

"Doctors are struggling to revive patients amid low blood supply. A few of my patients had to be put on a ventilator or other life support as their health deteriorated," said a senior doctor working at a government hospital in Vasai.