IIM-A, IIT Gandhinagar create bio-bubble for students amid COVID-19 surge

Both the institutes are following an isolation period of seven days upon arrival and has made negative RT-PCR report mandatory to be on the campus. Outside food is also restricted to some extent.

Premier institutes in India are opting to create bio-bubbles amid the rising cases of the novel coronavirus. The concept of ‘bio-bubble’ was popularized last year by authorities conducting sports events. Under this concept, fully vaccinated individuals are not allowed to mingle with the outside world and vice versa to avoid major spread of the virus.

Institute such as IIM Ahmedabad and IIT Gandhinagar after recording several numbers of the novel coronavirus cases on their campus decided to create a bio-bubble for students to keep them safe. According to TOI, IIM-A has allowed only resident students on campus, even as the classes are conducted online. "All movements are subject to permission from the Students Activities Office (SAO). Gatherings are not allowed and visits from the outside are subject to purpose – virtual meetings are encouraged," IIM-A spokesperson told TOI.

Likewise, IIT-Gandhinagar has barred the gathering of more than four persons. The institute has also appointed student volunteers appointed to ensure that COVID-19 protocols are followed. "Those not wearing masks are fined Rs 1,000. Outside entry is only through prior approval. Double vaccination certificate and taking the temperature is mandatory," said IIT Gn official to TOI.

Also, both the institutes are following an isolation period of seven days upon arrival and has made negative RT-PCR report mandatory to be on the campus. Outside food is also restricted to some extent.

During the first week of January, IIM Ahmedabad (IIM-A) recorded 113 COVID cases, at an average of 7.5 cases daily. Whereas, IIT Gandhinagar recorded a few new mild cases. According to TOI, IIM-A has, since the start of the pandemic, recorded 579 cases, whereas IIT-Gn had recorded 267 cases on campus by the end of the second wave.

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