HEROIC frontline warriors from Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) were honoured yesterday for their efforts and dedication during the nation’s ongoing fight against Covid-19.
The BIC team established and operated a number of Covid-19 testing and vaccination centres across the country.
The whole team – numbering 312 – has been also presented with the prestigious Prince Salman bin Hamad Medal for Medical Merit. Others presented with accolades include health professionals, the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), the Interior Ministry and numerous supporting bodies.
“The valuable support from the leadership is an impetus to continue working with the same determination in addressing the pandemic,” said BIC chief executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa.
“Our teams deserve every praise for the way they honourably stepped up to deal with the coronavirus crisis in a manner that preserves the health and safety of everyone.
“Our teams have been involved since the start of the pandemic helping to establish and operate a number of Covid-19 testing and vaccination centres.”
A team of BIC engineers also designed the first locally-made hospital respirator, as reported in the GDN.
BIC chairman Arif Rahimi was also present at the ceremony at the circuit in Sakhir, alongside other members of the BIC’s executive management.
“Commitment is rewarded, but the biggest reward is the work we have done to save lives over the past two years,” added Shaikh Salman.
Meanwhile, BIC governmental affairs, security and safety director Beshara Abdu Beshara said that hundreds of team members had proved that their skills and dedication could be utilised beyond motor sport.
“Vaccination and testing centres, ventilators and helping towards the opening of Bahrain International Airport’s new terminal, amongst other challenges, just show that we are a team ready for any task or project needed to help the country.”
BIC media and public relations executive and national Press officer Sarah Hashimi said colleagues would continue helping the community in the continuing fight against Covid-19.
“We are willing and able to help at the call centre, war room, vaccination or testing sites, and this will continue alongside our normal duties such as hosting the coming F1 race,” she said.
“All teams across BIC have received ‘200 per cent support’ from management and it reflects in the multiple tasks that were handled successfully.
“We’re ready for more if asked during the continuing fight against coronavirus.”
BIC senior manager for facilities and projects Jalal Ahmed highlighted that his team had created from scratch life-saving ventilators for the sickest Covid-19 patients fighting for breath. “We designed and built the ventilators – 200 units were managed in six weeks, and we remain ready to meet any further demands since the technology is there and any new advancements could be developed too,” he added.
mohammed@gdn.com.bh
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