CM appealed to people to join hand in fighting against Coronavirus

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 20, 2020

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday appeal to all citizens of the state to observe March 21 as the coronavirus awareness day (CAD) and not to look at it as a “lockdown” to understand and prevent the spread of coronavirus disease in the state.

The state government has decided to impose restrictions on movement on public transport and to close all shops, markets and establishments throughtout the state with effect from midnight of March 20 to midnight of March 21.

Appealing to the citizens for their cooperation through broadcaster DD Meghalaya and AIR, Sangma said, “During this global pandemic of COVID-19, we need the cooperation of every citizen to fight Coronavirus disease. “

Stating that till date there has not been a single case detected in the state, he however said “but that does not mean we can be complacent.”

“Therefore, the next four weeks are crucial for our state to break the transmission chain of the virus. I appeal to every citizen of the state to adhere to all the guidelines and advisories issued by the state government,” the CM said while urging everyone to postpone all personal, professional and social activities during this crucial time.

He said that the 21st March is to be observed as coronavirus awareness day (CAD) where all offices, banks (government and private), institutions, public places, market places and public transport will remain closed.

“I urge citizens to not look at this as a “lockdown” but this time must be utilized and observed as a ‘Coronavirus Awareness Day’ to understand and prevent the spread of coronavirus disease in the state by playing our part as individuals, families, locality and society at large. I appeal to all the citizens to take this day to focus and become aware about this pandemic disease and take steps to protect oneself and your close ones,” Sangma said.

The chief minister further urge the citizens to report any travel history in the last 14 days, like students, working professionals private and government both to use any of the three ways to inform the government – by calling 108 helpline number, by registering on the online registration system (meghalayaonline.gov.in/covid) and by calling respective DC office control room.

The citizens are also reminded on the need to maintain social distancing including self-quarantine, and maintain personal hygiene like handwash protocol. 

Also urging the headmen to take proactive steps to identify and inform of the same, the chief minister said that the Medical Volunteers and District Surveillance Team members will reach out to those identified households through phone or make visits if necessary to provide necessary guidance and care to those families for next 14 days.

Meanwhile, Sangma informed that the government is taking all necessary steps to maintain essential commodities as he appealed to every citizen not to panic and try to remain calm and also let us not stigmatize any person suspected of coronavirus.