Stating that some people are not taking the State-wide lockdown seriously, Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has directed the administrative officials to enforce the lockdown strictly. To ensure this, from Tuesday onward, shops selling essential commodities will remain open from 7 AM to 10 AM after which the whole market will remain closed. Private vehicles will not be allowed on the roads after this deadline, said the CM. Rawat also held a meeting with senior officials to review the situation in the state on Monday.
Rawat reiterated to the public that a State-wide lockdown has been imposed till March 31 as a preventive measure against the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Stating that essential services will remain available during the lockdown, he appealed the citizens to remain in their homes during this period. The CM said, “Novel coronavirus has brought a new challenge for us. The Government is fully prepared to meet this challenge. Essential services like the supply of electricity and water, health and sanitation are available as before. There is no shortage in the supply of food grains, oil, vegetables, fruits, petrol, diesel and other daily needs. The availability of essential goods and services will also be ensured in the coming days. The cooperation of the public is very important for the Govt. Observe the guidelines and directions issued by the Govt. Do not believe in rumours and trust only official Govt information.
Most importantly, remain indoors during the lockdown,” stressed the CM.
Rawat also held a meet with senior officials at his residence taking feedback on the COVID-19 situation and discussing the arrangements in the state. Later in an informal interaction with the media Rawat stressed on the need for the public to cooperate in the lockdown. He said, “Scientists and doctors around the world are busy trying to find a cure for this disease. In the meanwhile, prevention is our only chance to stall the spread of this virus.
When a nation like Italy is suffering greatly, we must learn lesson from their experience. We are still comparatively safe from such a situation but we need to strictly follow the official directions to prevent the situation from worsening. When it comes to those not observing the lockdown seriously, if needed strict measures will be taken.For this, a structure will be created and a task force will be formed to ensure its implementation till the lower level.”