Meghalaya sets up 4 check- points to monitor return of stranded citizens

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 2, 2020

At least four designated check points have been set up in different locations along the inter-state border for screening of citizens, who are stranded in the North East states due to COVID-19 lockdown, on their return to the state.

This was informed by the Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong after a meeting held with the Synjuk ki Rangbah Shnong, a conglomerate of traditional heads here on Saturday.

The state government has decided to allow its citizens stranded in different NE states to return to the state from May 5.

Tynsong told reporters that registration of such citizens who are willing to return to the state will end on May 4.

“We have set up four designated check points for screening of such citizens who are willing to return to the state. A dedicated team of doctors will be stationed at these check points 24×7 till entry of these people is completed,” he said.

The four check-points are located in Ratacherra, East Jaintia Hills, Byrnihat, Ri Bhoi, Bajengdoba, North Garo Hills and Tikrikilla, West Garo Hills.

The deputy chief minister further informed that the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for bringing back of stranded citizens have been circulated to all the traditional heads.

“We have discussed with them (rangbah shnongs) and they have accepted the proposal (SOPs) of the government,” he said.

He said according to the SOP, only those people who registered with the government are allowed to come back to the state.

“On their arrival at the check points, they will be properly screened with the help of Rapid Diagnostic Testing Kits (RDTKs). In case if anyone is found to be positive for coronavirus, they will immediately be taken to the designated centres,” Tynsong said.

The deputy CM however said those with no symptoms of the disease will be allowed to go to their respective home districts on condition that they to strictly follow the 14 days home-quarantine.

“Supposed a stranded citizen is having 6-7 family members staying in a house with two-three rooms, they will be allowed to stay together provided that the entire family will have to be home-quarantine and they will not be allowed to come out of their home,” he informed.

Tynsong also assured that the government is ready to support such families with essential commodities during the quarantine period.

For citizens, who are stranded in other parts of the country outside the region, he said the government has issued a notification to allow such people to register either online at meghalayaonline.gov.in/covid or contact 8258811914, 7005728463, 8794064688 and 9089171167.

According to him, the last date for registration is yet to be finalized since the nationwide lockdown has been extended till May 17.