The 14-day-long State-wide lockdown imposed by the State Government in a bid to break the coronavirus chain began on Wednesday.
In the morning, the people flocked to the local markets and shops in large numbers to procure essential commodities and other daily-use items. At some places, social distancing and mask-wearing rules were flouted rampantly.
On the day, the prices of onions and potatoes increased significantly as traders claimed shortages in supplies in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
However, a majority of people remained at home heeding the Government’s appeal. After 12 pm, the major roads wore a deserted look as police forces put up barricades and began frisking vehicles and commuters at important intersections. In the twin cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar and other areas, the people and vehicles engaged in essential services were allowed to commute to their destinations after producing identity proofs or other relevant documents. Those who could not give sufficient reasons for venturing out of homes were fined.
In Bhubaneswar, the Commissionerate police deployed 20 platoons of forces and 200 officers to enforce the lockdown. However, all essential services, including hospitals, nursing homes, medicine stores and petrol pumps, remained open as per the Government’s decision.