Port Blair, March 12: The Adhyaksh, South Andaman Zilla Parishad, Mr. Sudhir Chander in a letter to the Lt Governor, copies of which was also released to the media has stated that with the outbreak of COVID19 in some of the states in Mainland-India it has become pertinent for the UT administration to take extra precaution with regard to the disease. While the efforts of the Administration is laudable it should be made mandatory screening of all passengers arriving through the seaports and airports. He further suggested that entry of foreigners in these islands should be banned till containment of the disease in public interest as prevention is better than cure.
“No consignments may be allowed to be brought, from China in particular, by the trading community. Adequate measures of isolation wards and quarantine facility may be extended to all PHCs within these islands and the staff may be sensitized on the issue. A team of medical staff may be sent to Kerala to study the preparations in containment and treatment of COVID19 +ve cases as they have successfully done so. Or else due to lack of preparedness, the life of the very saviours of life would be in danger,” Mr. Subir Chander added.
He pointed out that shortage of sanitizers and masks have been noticed in the market. It is feared that black-marketing and hoarding would take place under these circumstances. Necessary steps may be initiated by the concerned department to prevent such malpractices. Necessary stock of sanitizers and face-masks may be maintained in all health centres.
“Frequency of boats and buses may also be increased particularly during peak hours (7am to 9am & 5pm to 7pm) so as to avoid congestion while travelling, as close-contacts and proximity to each other would increase the probability of infection. Presently, during peak hours, government servants, students and other working class has to struggle to travel due to low frequency of means of transportation,” he added.
