CM appeals to citizens not to panic, says no shortage of essential commodities

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 20, 2020

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday urged the citizens of the state not to panic in view of the 24-hour shutdown called by the government tomorrow as part of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the state.

The appeal was made in the wake of reports about people rushing to buy essential commodities due to fear that there may be a possible shortage in the state.

Speaking to reporters after chairing a cabinet meeting, Sangma announced that there is no shortage of essential commodities in the state and that the people need not panic.

“There is no need to buy additional food items or buy large quantity of food or produces as the supply is very much there,” he said.

The chief minister further informed that the state government is shutting down everything on March 21, to create awareness and that it is not to be taken as a “lockdown”.

“We are calling it as a coronavirus awareness day and ensure we educate our locality, family members like washing hands and maintaining social distancing,” he said.

He however said a lot of people are aware but are not taking enough measures to be careful. “One day if we close down everything it will send that seriousness to everybody and at the same time people should not panic,” the chief minister said.