AGARTALA, March 23 - Tripura is all set to go for lockdown from 2 pm tomorrow till March 29 to prevent spread of novel coronavirus even as no positive case has been reported till now.
�As part of preventive measure to battle against the deadly disease, the state Cabinet today decided to go for lockdown from 2 pm tomorrow following advisory from the Centre,� said Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb at a press conference here tonight. However, essential services would remain operational while workforce in all the government departments would be drastically reduced as part of the lockdown. He exhorted the people to stay at home and not step out unless there is very urgent need during the lockdown.
�The law enforcement agencies will take stringent steps if anybody is found violating the lockdown,� he said.
Appealing to the people not to panic over the measures taken by the state government, the Chief Minister said the state has enough stock of food items. Besides, goods movement will continue to ensure supply of essential items.
Deb appealed to the administration, police and public representatives to ensure nobody enters the state from across the border or neighbouring states.
Earlier, the government has decided to extend restriction on some key segments to prevent spread of coronavirus. The areas where restrictions came into enforce from today include public transport, inter-state bus service and a blanket ban on entry to the state through Akhaura ICP.
Except those who possess official or diplomatic visas, no one will be allowed to enter the state through Akhaura ICP. The restriction will remain in place till March 31 next.
Meanwhile, Agartala Municipal Corporation vide a notification has announced to spray disinfectant across Agartala city from Monday 10 pm till 5 am the following day.
AMC vide a notification requested the citizens of the capital city that in view of the pandemic caused by coronavirus, the AMC has decided to start spraying of disinfectant on all the streets, shutters of shops, bus stand and parking areas, including all crowded places of the city from tomorrow to April 6.
