Up efforts to combat COVID-19 : Cong

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Mar 20: Taking note of the alarming spread of COVID-19, leader of the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) and ex-Chief Minister Okram Ibobi has expressed desire for the State Government to strengthen its preventive measures and preparations taken up to combat the virus in Manipur.
Speaking to media persons at his official residence at Babupara today morning, Ibobi said that COVID-19 has now become a global issue and the threat posed by the virus is evidenced by the announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday calling for a Janata Curfew on March 22 (Sunday).
Fortunately, there has been no case of COVID-19 in Manipur till date and in the neighbouring country of Myanmar as well. However, it is imperative for both the Central and State Governments to strengthen their preventive measures and the preparations to face the battle against the virus, Ibobi said.
He continued that the State Government is observing various protocol ranging from screening people coming to the State from outside, quarantining suspected individuals, preparing isolation wards, spreading awareness about COVID-19 to the people etc.
In other States, educational institutions, malls, cinema halls, gyms, restaurants and business establishments have been closed down. When it comes to Manipur, many natives which went outside the State for studies or business, as well as foreign and domestic tourists are still entering the region  non-stop.
The most pressing question is whether a simple temperature check upon arrival is enough, Ibobi remarked, expressing desire for the authorities to ensure that the travel histories and other details of the people who come into Manipur be verified thoroughly. He reasoned that experts and scientists pointed out that the incubation period of COVID-19 is usually around 14 days and an infected individual can start showing symptoms after this period. He also asked what the State Government is going to do to ensure the safety of the women vendors who are conducting business at Khwairamband Keithel.
In developed countries like USA, Italy etc, COVID-19 has spread like wildfire and crippled normal life. Compared to such countries, Manipur is alarmingly under-equipped to combat the virus. The State lacks many necessary infrastructure and the manpower needed in the battle against COVID-19, Ibobi opined.
The ex-CM continued that in West Bengal, the Government has earmarked Rs 15 crore to contain/combat the virus and expressed desire for the Government of Manipur to atleast ensure seriousness in the preparations against COVID-19.
If the virus once reaches Manipur, it might explode and cause a major and uncontrollable catastrophe, he added.
Ibobi then appealed to the people not to panic and to instead follow the guidelines of WHO. He also assured that the Congress party will also do everything in its power to protect the people.
CLP members Gaikhangam, K Govindas, K Ranjit, D Korungthang, AK Mirabai, K Meghachandra, DD Thaisii, Fajur Rahim and O Surjakumar were also present at the meet.