Meghalaya to strengthen checkpoints to restrict inter-state movement

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 24, 2020

The state government has decided to strengthen the entry-exit points to restrict the entry of people from other states in order to prevent further spread of COVID-19 in the state.

“We have asked the Chief Secretary to take necessary steps to strengthen these entry-exit points to ensure unnecessary visits by people from other states is totally stopped,” Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong told reporters after chairing a review meeting on Wednesday.

The entry-exit points are located at Bajengdoba in North Garo Hills, Byrnihat in Ri Bhoi and Ratacherra in East Jaintia Hills.

Tynsong said despite the government’s decision not to allow inter-state movement till further orders, yet the coming of people from other states is still taking place in these entry-exit points.

Stating that Meghalaya is the only state in the country which register over 96 per cent recovery rate, the deputy CM said, “It seems that people from outside tend to have that desire to take shelter in our state.”

He however maintained that the government is not at all against the coming of people from other states but is only requesting them to avoid coming to the state at this juncture since inter-state movement is strictly prohibited.

“We request all concerned who intend to visit in the form of tourists, relatives to refrain from coming to the state till the situation related to the COVID-19 is improved and till restriction on inter-state movement is lifted,” Tynsong said.

He also appealed to those working in the state not to encourage their family members and relatives to travel to the state during this time. “The CS will also hold a meeting with the paramilitary forces for their support and cooperation on this issue,” he informed.

According to him, the decision was also taken after witnessing the rise in COVID-19 cases in other states including neighbouring Assam.

Asked, the deputy CM said the entry-exit points will be strengthened in such a way that people who are trying to come to the state will be stopped and asked to go back. “This is being done to ensure the safety of our citizens,” he added.

Tynsong however said that detailed information about the transit vehicles will be maintained as he urged the traditional heads and residents to be vigilant and inform the nearest police station in case there is any violation of the government order.