Shillong, May 7: Violations of healthcare protocols and the administration’s directives were seen in the city on Friday, the first day of partial relaxation of the total curfew that started from 8pm on May 5.
In Jhalupara, people came out in large numbers as many essential goods shops were concentrated in parts of the locality. Though they were wearing masks, there was no social distancing at any shop.
During a walk from Laban to Lower Lachaumiere, it was noticed that movement of people as well as vehicles was unrestricted.
Unlike the past, the administration is allowing fish and meat shops, besides vegetable vendors, to continue their business on the two days of partial relaxation, leading to crowding in many localities in the city.
Last year, only vegetable sellers were allowed to do business and meat and fish shops were open on alternate days. Though there were no local taxis plying in the city, private vehicles were aplenty and some of them were seen running without curfew passes pasted on windshields or rear shields. A police man, when asked, said he was “helpless”.
As per the order of the East Khasi Hills deputy commissioner, banks and postal services are closed for five days. Both the services are essential, according to the list of essential services of the Home Affairs Ministry. Private courier service, however, is not mentioned in the district administration’s order.
There is also a bar on home delivery of food.
The irony is that when the essential services are being restricted, there was no administrative control over citizens.
The state on Friday recorded six Covid-19 deaths, all reported from East Khasi Hills, and 297 new positive cases, taking the total number of active cases to 2,466.
Of the six deaths reported, one victim, Anil Mandal, was from Assam’s Margherata and was admitted in NEIGRIHMS. He was 39 years old. Another victim who was below 40 years was Tony Singha from Lumgynshai in the district. He was admitted in Civil Hospital, Shillong. Others are Meniories Khongwang (55), Umsiem, Pongtung,Jenny Marki Dhar(85), Umpling,Desplin Marbaniang(55), Lad Mawreng and Mawphlang Kleoon Thabah(60)from Sohiong
There are 180 new cases in East Khasi Hills, the highest among the 11 districts, followed by Ri Bhoi at 58. Garo Hills recorded 31 cases with West Garo Hills leading with 22.
As the Covid-19 cases continue to rise, the state government has stepped up the vaccination drive and over 7,000 were inoculated on Friday.
The total curfew continues in the district. On Friday, essential goods shops were open from 9am-7pm.
