Odisha government has also activated its health contingency plan to tackle the spread of this new coronavirus to the State. The vulnerability index for the State is Odisha has direct flights (4 a week) to Malaysia, and the big revelation is Malaysia has reported three confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV (novel Coronavirus).
The Union Government has undertaken the process of thermal screening of passengers arriving from China and Hong Kong at only 7 airports like Delhi, Mumbai,Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Cochin. Bhubaneswar Airport not included in the list as Odisha has no direct flights to China and Hong.
However, as per State Health Secretary, NB Dhal, as confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV detected in Malaysia and air connect exists between Odisha & Malaysia, the State has placed a request for thermal screening at Bhubaneswar airport in today's meeting with Union Health Secretary. Odisha Health Secretary informed that Union Government has accepted State's request and necessary action will soon follow, he added.
What is thermal screening? It's a thermal imager that “sees” temperature by measuring emitted radiation and converting this data to a corresponding image. The greater the radiation being emitted by an object the higher the temperature and conversely, less emission results in lower temperatures. And it's the colour codes that indicate so. Blue colour for normal body temperature and red for severe fever (see the images given below).
2019-nCoV situation in India: As per the update released by Union Health Ministry today, Total of 29,707 passengers from 137 flights screened. 4,359 passengers of 22 flights screened today. No case of coronavirus found till date. The Union Health Ministry has also appealed to people who visited China in the recent past and are currently having symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty in breathing, to report to nearby health centres for consultation. Alert in eastern UP, Bihar and West Bengal, post detection of a single confirmed 2019-nCoV case in Nepal
Following the guidelines, Odisha has also issued a similar appeal today. Anyone from Odisha who visited China in recent past and exhibiting the symptoms of upper tract respiratory infections, need to contact nearest healthcare centres, informed State Health Secretary Dhal.
What is coronavirus? There are 2-types of virus families - Rhino and Corona. While Rhino virus mostly causes common cold in human beings, coronavirus causes common cold and also acute respiratory syndromes like MERS and SARS.
MERS is known as Middle-East Respiratory Syndrome, first detected in Saudi Arabia in 2012. MERS is zoonotic virus, which means it's transmission to human has been from animals (camel). MERS transmission from human to human is not easy, unless one is having a close contact with the infected person.
SARS is known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome and first detected in china in 2003. As per WHO, this virus is believed to have spread from Bats to cats and to human. Its transmission between humans is very fast and can take an epidemic form in a very short time span.
As per WHO, origin of 2019-nCoV is yet unknown. But human transmission is faster, especially when having close contact (household, workplace, crowded market and health centre) with infected person.
Since 2019-nCoV is a new strain, nothing known about its life-cycle, transmission mode, incubation period etc, a vaccine is yet to be developed.
Prevention better than Cure: WHO says there is no specific treatment for 2019-nCoV. However, many of the symptoms can be treated and therefore treatment based on the patient’s clinical condition. Moreover, supportive care for infected persons can be highly effective. For which, isolation ICU wards are being opened at SCB, MKCG, VSS and some DHHs.
WHO standard recommendations are to reduce exposure to and transmission by maintaining basic hand and respiratory hygiene, and safe food practices (proper cooking of non-veg foods) and avoiding close contact, when possible, with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as fever with chill, coughing and sneezing.
Suspecting infection, the medical student who pursues MBBS in China wrote a letter to Kandhamal Collector and the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) to apprise them about his health condition and also went to Phulbani hospital for a health check-up today.
“I came to the hospital for a health check-up as I have been suffering from cold and cough after I returned home recently from China where there is outbreak of Coronavirus,” the student said.
“Though the outbreak of the virus in China was reported after my return on January 11, I have a fear that I might have also been infected by Coronavirus,” he added.
Speaking about the student’s health condition, Medicine specialist of Phulbani hospital, Bidyadhar Panda, said, “He was living near Wuhan province in China which has been massively infected by the Coronavirus. The symptoms exhibited by the student seem more like the viral infection.”
“We have referred him to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for further medical examination and are hopeful that we will get detail reports within three-four days,” he added.
Asked about the incident, Kandhamal CDMO said despite similar symptoms, there has been no confirmation whether the student has been infected with the virus.
"He informed that he developed cold and cough after coming to his home town but since there are chances of virus in incubation stage, so we have referred him to SCB. His samples are likely to be sent to Pune-based virology lab where it would take two -three days for inspection and then only we can confirm whether he really has any infection," the CDMO said.
It is worthwhile to mention here that the death toll in China due to Coronavirus rose to over 200, with more than 10,000 cases confirmed in almost 20 countries following which the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak as a global health emergency.
74 travellers who have returned from Coronavirus affected countries after January 15 have been identified by the state surveillance system and kept under home quarantine, said the Health Department official.
While blood and throat swab samples of seven persons were sent to Pune-based virology lab for tests, all were found negative, the official said.
State Health Control Room is functioning 24x7 and queries of people are being addressed by Control Room number 0674-2390466.
The official said a necessary advisory has been issued to all the Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) to take preventive and control measures regarding the coronavirus.
As nCoV (Covid-19) has no definite treatment, wide publicity is being done to create awareness in the community through health education messages especially on handwashing, cough etiquette and home isolation, the official said.
The Odisha government has opened special wards in five premier hospitals across the state for dealing with coronavirus cases.
(IANS)
The lethal virus has taken a massive 60 countries into its vice like grip. As per WHO latest update, in last 48 hours, COVID 19 has penetrated into seven new countries namely Mexico, San Merino, Belarus, Lithuania, Netherlands, New Zealand, and Nigeria. The apex health body has raised the risk level (spread and impact) to very high at the global level.
How it will change world's fate?
COVID 19 has infected stock markets across the world. The flu makes the markets look red. When investors across globe in last six-days lost a whopping $ 6 trillion, Indian investors in a single day-trading lost an eye-popping $5trillion. Economists fear this rush for sell-off of stocks could become a long-term phenomenon, which could then push the global economy to a recession. The caveat is if no positive news regarding containment of this rampaging virus emerges, then the inevitable can happen. If global economy slips into recession, it will then be a worst nightmare for all countries, including India.
INDIA Scenario
Twenty-six days over, no new case reported from anywhere in country. The assuring fact is all three COVID 19 cases were imported cases. The history of COVID 19 cases show the lethal viral strain has not penetrated to community level in India.
Does the Risk Persists: It's very much there. The danger of import of COVID-19 still looms large. In the context of emerging global scenario, Union Health Ministry has held a specific review of J&K and Ladakh with respect to returnees from Iran.
A sort of travel ban has been issued by Centre. Advisories issued to avoid all non-essential travel to Singapore, Republic of Korea, Iran and Italy. Also, people coming from Republic of Korea, Iran and Italy or having such travel history since 10th February 2020 are quarantined for 14 days on arrival to India.
COVID-19 Check-list: As many as 4.829 lakh passengers screened from 4,787 flights as on date. Screening continues at 21 Airports, 12 major seaports and 65 minor seaports and land crossings particularly bordering Nepal. A total of 23,531passengers are presently under community surveillance through IDSP.
A total of 2,836 samples sent for testing, 2,830 are found negative, 3 samples were earlier found positive in Kerala (these have recovered and have been discharged) and 3 are under testing. All 645 evacuees at the earlier camps at Manesar and Chhawla discharged on Feb 18th.
ODISHA Scenario
As many as seven suspected COVID-19 cases in the State found negative. Still, as per State Health Department, a high of 83 people returned from affected countries were placed under home quarantine as a preventive measure.
How big the risk: The vulnerability is not off the hook. Though the intensive screening at airports stands as a guard against the virus penetrating to the State, a high-level watch-out need to be maintained with regard to community transmission from states like Kerala, J&K etc.
Self-Quarantine Mode: *Avoid close contact with sick people. *Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. *Stay home when you are sick. *Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. *Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Global Scenario
Latest WHO update shows COVID-19 is traced in 60 countries. US has recorded its first COVID-19 death. As per Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the patient has no travel history to affected country. CDC feels the virus is spreading in community.
SCIENTISTS SCALE UP EFFORTS: US-based CDC has named the virus as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2). It says, " SARS-CoV-2 virus is a betacoronavirus, like MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV. All three viruses have their origins in bats.
*COVID-19 has been grown in cell culture by CDC in its lab to study its epidemiology and develop an anti-viral therapy.
*CDC has developed a new laboratory test kit for use in testing patient specimens for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The test kit is called the CDC 2019-Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Real-Time Reverse Transcriptase (RT)-PCR Diagnostic Panel.
In the bestseller titled "End of Days: Predictions and Prophecies about the End of the World", author Sylvia Browne seems to have got the prediction right about Covid-19.
According to the book, "In around 2020 a severe pneumonia-like illness will spread throughout the globe, attacking the lungs and the bronchial tubes and revisiting all known treatments."
She added further, "Almost more baffling than the illness itself will be the fact that it will suddenly vanish as quickly as it arrived, attack again 10 years later, and then disappear completely."
Covid-19 is a virus which attacks the lungs and has become a potent force in the beginning of the year 2020. There is no known vaccine yet for the virus. It is yet to be seen if the illness vanishes quickly and whether it attacks again 10 years later. This part of the prediction remains to be seen in the future.
(IANS)
The Directorate of Drug Control, Odisha today directed drugs inspectors across the State to be vigilant and conduct raids on medical stores to check hoarding of masks and sanitizers.
The direction came after a few reports surfaced about people facing problems in getting masks and sanitizers from the market.
While some store owners said that they are finding it difficult to meet the sudden increase in demand, consumers alleged that the products have been hoarded by big wholesalers to scoop out higher profits.
Meanwhile, safety guidelines were issued inside the Odisha Assembly today to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. The legislators and the staff of the Assembly have been advised to wash their hands frequently. To maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the Assembly, furniture and equipment including tables, chairs, computers, phones and other assets will be cleaned six times a day with disinfectants and sanitizers, informed sources.
Also Read: COVID-19: India Cancels All Non-Official Visas, Advises Against Travel Abroad
Restrictions have also been imposed on the use of fingerprint-based biometric attendance inside the House and it will be replaced by a manual register.
"All the staff/legislators are advised to clean their hands frequently with handwash /soaps. Handwash/soaps will also be kept in the washrooms and toilets on the premises. The legislators are advised to use tissue papers in order to sneeze or cough, the advisory read. Besides, those suffering from, cold, cough and fever should seek the help of the doctors present at the Assembly dispensary, it added.
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A PHD scholar of National Institute of Technology in Rourkela named Vineet Kumar claimed to have designed the app which could help in self-screening of Coronavirus infection.
Speaking about his app, Vineet said, “The preliminary step for screening of the disease is thermal detection. So our application is based on an IR Sensor thermal camera which transcripts the whole body temperature of any suspected person to create a profile. It is then matched with the standard temperature profile of an infection-hit body to give us any first-hand information if the person has any abnormality.”
Also Read: Coronavirus: Govt Notifies Hand Sanitizers, Surgical Masks, Gloves As Essential Commodities
It may be noted that at present, the standard method of diagnosis for the Coronavirus is by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) carried out on the nasopharyngeal swab or throat swab of an infected patient.
“Although it is a not a comprehensive testing method, it can be definitely used as a first-step identification of any suspected cases,” claimed the NIT scholar.
Further explaining the working of his application, Vineet said, “Basically we have synchronised a face-locker infrared camera with the standard profile containing detection parameters of a Coronavirus patient in our app. So when a person clicks a photograph using the application, if it shows green colour then the person does not have to worry but if the indicator shows red, the person should go for detailed screening as it may be a case of infection."
While endorsing the application for public use, Kumar said, “I hope that the government supports us and authorizes the app so that it can be installed for mass detection of suspected cases at major sensitive points like railway stations.
https://youtu.be/hr9yCPMTpgo
The collectors of Khurda, Ganjam and Gajapati and Jharsuguda have issued orders canceling the leaves of all government employees in order to meet any exigencies due to Coronavirus outbreak.
Also Read: Odisha Prepares Six-Month Action Plan To Combat Coronavirus
The concerned district authorities have also imposed strict restrictions on the movement of tourists in major sightseeing destinations with immediate effect.
In Khurda the administration has asked tourists to refrain from visiting various sites like Kalijai, Nalabana, Mangalajodi etc. Ganjam district administration has enforced prohibitory orders under section 144 of the IPC to prevent people from gathering in public places.
BIG BREAKING: Prohibitory orders under section 144 of IPC enforced in #Ganjam district to prevent public gathering in the wake of #Coronavirus outbreak; leaves of all government employees cancelled #Odisha #COVID19 #CoronavirusPandemic pic.twitter.com/deWiIi5l14
— OTV (@otvnews) March 15, 2020
Similarly, the sites like Gandahati, Chandragiri have also been declared no visiting zones for tourists in Gajapati district. All coaching centres in the districts have been asked to shut down their operations from tomorrow.
Apart from suspending leaves of all govt employees, Gajapati district authorities enforce tight restrictions on movement of tourists at various sightseeing destinations in the district #Odisha pic.twitter.com/KVJyJxnI7c
— OTV (@otvnews) March 15, 2020
The Police Commissioner of Twin Cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar has issued temporary closure notice to all shopping malls operating in the cities in the wake of the viral outbreak. The enforcement will come into effect from tomorrow.
"As per Section 35 of the Odisha Urban Police Act, Twin City Commissioner of Police has ordered all malls in the cities of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack to remain closed till 31 March 2020. The order will come into effect from tomorrow," a tweet by the Police Commissioner stated.
As per Section 35 of the Odisha Urban Police Act Commissioner of Police has ordered all Malls in the twin Cities of Bhubaneswar-Cuttack to remain closed till 31 March 2020. The order will come into effect from 16 March 2020.@SarangiSudhansu@DCP_CUTTACK @dcpbbsr
— COMMISSIONERATE POLICE (@cpbbsrctc) March 15, 2020
Meanwhile, Odisha government on Sunday appointed 4 senior IAS as officers on special duty in Health and Family Welfare department for enforcement of The Odisha Covid-19 Regulations, 2020.
CGM, OMFED, Bhubaneswar Somesh Kumar Upadhyay, P Anwesha Reddy, ED of OMC Limited, Patil Asish Ishwar, ED of GRIDCO and Divakara TS, OSD of OCAC have been appointed as the special officers who will supervise the enforcement of the regulations apart from performing their own duties till June 30, 2020.
https://youtu.be/g7TS9O8Vc3g
Chief Spokesperson of the Odisha Government on COVID-19, Subroto Bagchi, confirmed that the 33-yr-old patient has been tested positive for coronavirus.
According to officials at the Hospital, a local resident of the State capital had returned from Italy recently and was put into quarantine in Delhi. However, later he reportedly took a train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar.
The 33-year-old who returned from Italy on March 6 was in self-quarantine in Delhi. He then boarded a train for Bhubaneswar on March 12 and arrived here the day after. However, when he continued to suffer from headache and fever, he consulted a doctor and took some medicines. But as his health condition did not improve, he went to Capital Hospital on March 14 where he was admitted to the isolation ward. Later, his blood and swab samples were sent to Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) here for examination and the reports revealed that he was infected with COVID-19.
On March 13, he visited a private clinic where he was prescribed basic medication including antibiotics and antacid. However, after there was no improvement in his health condition, he visited Capital Hospital where he was admitted on March 14.
Also Read: Odisha Prepares Six-Month Action Plan To Combat Coronavirus
After the man was tested positive for COVID-19, a special team of Health and Family Welfare Department of Odisha government rushed to the Capital hospital and took stock of his health condition.
https://youtu.be/doHMiBMcEo4
Meanwhile, doctors at Capital Hospital informed that the man's health condition was stable. The State government is reportedly collecting data of all those who had travelled with the student by train on the day so that they can be tracked for quarantine. The student’s family has also been asked to remain in quarantine.
Sources said the Health Department is scheduled to hold an emergency meeting later today. Besides, the Union government will also be apprised about the case. This apart, screening will also be done at Bhubaneswar railway station.
Speaking to ANI, Director of Directorate of Medical Education & Training (DMET), Dr CBK Mohanty, said, "One positive case of Coronavirus has been detected in Odisha. He has travel history to Italy. He later took a train from Delhi to Bhubaneswar. The patient is admitted at a Bhubaneswar hospital."
As a precautionary measure against the spread of coronavirus, tourists have been asked to stay inside their hotel rooms in Puri and shopkeepers of makeshift stalls have been directed to leave the area.
The authorities of various districts on Sunday cancelled the leaves of government employees of the State to combat the possibility of any spread in novel-Coronavirus (Covid19) disease.
Sister of #Bhubaneswar youth, who has been tested positive for #Coronavirus alleges negligence by Capital Hospital authorities#COVID19 #CoronavirusInOdisha #CoronavirusIndia #Odisha pic.twitter.com/U5c90aPcoj
— OTV (@otvnews) March 16, 2020
The collectors of Khurda, Ganjam and Gajapati and Jharsuguda have issued orders canceling the leaves of all government employees in order to meet any exigencies due to Coronavirus outbreak.
The Police Commissioner of Twin Cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar has issued temporary closure notice to all shopping malls operating in the cities in the wake of the viral outbreak. The enforcement will come into effect from today.
Top tourist and religious sites in Odisha including Sun Temple in Konark and Shanti Stupa (peace pagoda) at Dhauli on Sunday shut their doors for visitors as a precautionary measure to stem the spread of novel-Coronavirus that has already claimed more than 5900 deaths globally. Similarly, a slew of restrictions have been imposed in Puri Srimandir, the shrine of Lord Lingaraj in Bhubaneswar in the wake of the viral outbreak. The Puri district administration started frisking vehicles and screening passengers at Pipili entry point.
On the other hand, the State Election Commission of Odisha on Monday postponed the March 24 panchayat bypolls after the state reported its first case of novel coronavirus.
The authorities ordered closure of all government and private schools with immediate effect amid the growing coronavirus threat, an official said.
A notification, issued by the SEC, said that the bypolls to two zilla parishad seats, six sarpanches, eight panchayat samiti seats and 84 wards have been postponed until further orders.
Another notification by the school and mass education department said that the ongoing annual examination of class 12 students and the evaluation of the answer sheets of class X students will continue as per schedule.
The housing and urban development department asked authorities of all the local bodies to keep community centres, cyclone shelters or any other buildings ready with electricity and water supply facility to quarantine people.
State commerce and transport minister Padmanabha Behera said advisories have been issued to passengers and drivers and staff of both the government and private buses will have to wear masks.
The government, through public announcement system, asked people not to gather in sea beach and keep the environment clean.
This apart, restrictions have been imposed on conduct of festivals like Haripur Dola Ustav, 'Baruni Snan' and other festivals.
https://youtu.be/4oLulYmzmRY
The School & Mass Education Department held a meeting with all District Education Officers (DEO) Block Education Officer (BEO) and Chief Examiners via video-conferencing on Monday and asked them to take specific measures in the wake of COVID19 while evaluating the matric exam papers.
Also Read: Fighting Coronavirus: Odisha Govt Postpones Exams For Class I To IX Students
The concerned officials have been directed to follow the subject-wise paper evaluation method to avoid crowd in the evaluation centres.
The evaluators have been directed to use sanitizers and maintain distance from one another as per the guidelines issued by the Health Department.
The teachers will reach the centres on March 18 while the evaluation will begin from March 19 and continue till April 10. The paper evaluation will be held in three phases between 8.30 AM and 4.30 PM.
As many as 16,000 teachers will check the exam sheets in 61 evaluation centres across the State.
“In view of the coronavirus outbreak, we have strictly directed teachers to follow the guidelines and urged them not to congregate. As part of measures, the evaluation will be held subject-wise in different timings to avoid gathering of the teachers at the centres,” said Board of Secondary Education chairman, Ramashish Hazra.
Apart from Hazra, other officials including School and Mass Education secretary Chithra Arumugam and Odisha Primary Education Programme Authority (OPEPA) Director Bhupinder Singh Punia took part in the meeting.
Earlier yesterday, the School and Mass Educations department issued a notification for immediate closure of all government, aided, public and private schools in the State.
This apart, the department also asked the schools to postpone examination of students of standard I to Class IX and XI till further orders. However, it said that the teachers must not attend schools but should remain available over phone for specific instructions.
The department further said that the examination for class XII shall continue as per schedule and evaluation work for class-X and XII will continue as per schedule following all do’s and dont’s prescribed by the Health and Family Welfare Department.
For others, a disaster is something to dread. But for them, it is an opportunity of a lifetime to make a fast buck by cashing in on the people’s fear, misery and helplessness during times of calamity. We have seen it during the Super Cyclone in 1999, the worst natural calamity to hit Odisha in the last century, and during all subsequent disasters in the state since then, most recently during Cyclone ‘Fani’ in May last year. And we are already witnessing it in ample measure as COVID-19 aka nCorona, the biggest so far this century, spreads its tentacles farther and wider across the world, the country and our very own Odisha with each passing day.
If you haven’t guessed it already, one is talking of the alacrity with which a gang of ‘enterprising’ but utterly unscrupulous traders and businessmen have found ways to cash in on the Corona ‘bonanza’. Surgical masks are selling at 5, 10, 20 times their normal prices. With the illogical mad rush for masks of people ready to fork out any amount for them, ‘business’ could not have been brisker for the retailers. Repeated advisories by government agencies that a healthy person need not wear masks have fallen on deaf ears. Sanitizers have suddenly become the most sought after item in medicine shops and are selling at hefty premiums wherever they are available at all. With traders already warning about a transport lockdown due to the fast-growing footprint of the nCorona virus in the days ahead, Odisha, dependent on other states for a majority of its essential requirements, is all set to witness a crippling disruption in supplies from other states. If the warning comes true, it will open up multiple avenues for traders to make more money. We are already witnessing the first signs of this phenomenon as people stock up on essentials amid apprehension of a scarcity of these items in the near future.
Read More:Column: Fight Against COVID-19 Caught Between Complacency And Panic
It is not as if it is a post-independence phenomenon in India, like many others ills afflicting our society and polity. It was there at the time of the great famine in Odisha, better known in the state as the Naa’nka Durbhikhya, in 1866 as countless accounts of the time reveal. It was there at the time of the Second World War too when the Britishers ruled us. The Indian genius for making money out of people’s misery had clearly rendered even the mighty and supposedly more efficient British administration powerless before it.
Only the items keep changing depending on the nature of the disaster; the phenomenon itself remains unchanged. If it’s a cyclone or a flood, it would be candles, batteries and all kinds of eatables. If it’s nCorona, the items being hoarded and sold for a premium by the traders’ cartel; would be surgical masks, sanitizers and the like. It need not be an ‘item’ every time though. There are times when the services sector reaps the benefits. During ‘Fani’, for example, the biggest money-spinner was generator sets with operators charging as much Rs 2, 000 for half an hour of lifting water!
Read More: Coronavirus Updates: Trains Cancelled As People Shun Travel
The history of disasters has repeatedly proved the gross inability, inadequacy and utter helplessness of the government machinery to rein in what is euphemistically called the ‘market forces’ and ensure a steady supply of essentials at affordable rates. The responses have always followed a particular template that was perhaps designed in the 1960 and 1970s. Invoke ESMA, issue the customary warning about ‘stringent action’ against hoarders and black marketers and then follow it up with a perfunctory crackdown on a few hoarders before surrendering to the ‘market forces’. We saw how powerful these cartels are and how helpless our government is when onion prices went through the roofs a few months ago.
Apart from the inadequacy of the market regulators and the law enforcement machinery, a big reason these unscrupulous traders have been able to go about their business nonchalantly is their clout and influence with the political class. This clout comes from the huge money they pour into the coffers of political parties and leaders, which gives them immunity from prosecution or any strong action.
As for the people, they can do precious little other than watching helplessly as the politician-trader nexus milks the disaster for all it is worth!
(DISCLAIMER: This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same)
Patnaik's elder sister Gita Mehta (77) stays in the USA and usually visits her late father Biju Patnaik's house every year in March.
Mehta remained in "home isolation" at the Naveen Niwas, the chief minister's residence near the city airport.
"I have registered my sister's details on the government portal for persons coming from abroad," Patnaik said in a tweet.
The chief minister lodged his sister's details in the designated portal within 24 hours of her arrival, an official said.
I have registered my sister’s details in the Government portal for persons coming from abroad. I appeal all of you to also register details about your family members and friends coming from abroad. This will help protect #Odisha from #CoronaVirus#Register4Covid19SafeOdisha
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) March 18, 2020
While making an appeal to other foreign returnees to inform the government about their tour, Patnaik thanked Gajapati Maharaja of Puri and his family members for themselves intimating about their arrival from the US and going into the self- quarantine.
The state government has already announced an incentive of Rs 15,000 for registration of foreign returnees and isolating themselves at their homes.
"I appeal to everyone coming from abroad to mandatorily register themselves through the toll-free number 104 or online portal -- covid19.odisha.gov.in -- within 24 hours of arrival in Odisha, to prevent the spread of the disease in the state," Patnaik said in a video message.
Self-disclosure will help the administration in tracking and containing the virus outbreak, he said.
I appeal everyone coming from abroad to mandatorily register themselves through toll free number-104 or online portal https://t.co/dAGGzSp7jV within 24 hours of arrival, to prevent spread of #COVID19 in #Odisha.Self disclosure will help us in tracking and containing the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/j6tpC5IDTE
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) March 18, 2020
As many as 1,239 people have already registered their names with the portal and through helpline number by Tuesday.
Police on Wednesday raided some hotels and guest houses in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack for allegedly ignoring the government's advisory and not informing the administration about their guests.
A guest house in Jaydev Vihar in the state capital was sealed, a senior official said.
"A group of people from Maharashtra and Delhi had stayed in this guest house, but the owner did not inform the administration. Therefore, we have sealed the facility," he said.
As part from its measures to tackle the spread of the disease, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) ordered that the seven major 'haats' in the State capital will function between 6 AM to 6 PM.
The state government also issued an advisory to all religious institutions within the State to strictly adhere to the advisories and stress on social distancing.
Similarly, the Finance Department of the State government issued an advisory for all the banks and asked them to adhere to it control COVID-19 disease.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed those involved in combating the coronavirus outbreak as he responded to several tweets on the fight against the deadly virus. He also appreciated Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for setting an example by registering his sister's details in the government portal for people coming from abroad.
"I hope others also emulate Naveen Babu. We all can do our bit in preventing the spread of COVID-19," Modi said.
Setting a great example, Chief Minister!
I hope others also emulate Naveen Babu. We all can do our bit in preventing the spread of COVID-19. @Naveen_Odisha #IndiaFightsCorona https://t.co/N3LeLfxdAC
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 18, 2020
Responding to a tweet by a man whose daughter was rescued from COVID-19-hit Italy, the prime minister said, "Will do everything possible to help our citizens."
Such efforts are possible due to teamwork, he said, lauding all those working to make it possible.
To a doctor who posted a picture of himself with a message urging people to stay at home, Modi said, "Well said, Doctor! Also a shout-out to all those working to make our planet safer and healthier. No words will ever do justice to their exceptional efforts."
The prime minister also urged researchers, innovators and tech-lovers to rise to the occasion and ideate for a better planet.
Responding to a Twitter user who said his firm is closed and was continuing to service clients remotely, Modi said, "That is the spirit! Precaution and productivity both are possible in these times. Best wishes to you and your team."
Replying to a tweet praising his initiative of bringing SAARC countries together for combating COVID-19, he said working together can lead to good results, benefiting so many people.
"I thank PM Hasina for sharing her insightful views during the video conference with fellow SAARC leaders," Modi said.
(PTI)
Hotels and lodges have been directed not to make fresh bookings till March 31, he said.
Also Read: Odisha CM’s Sister In Home Isolation For Coronavirus On Return From Abroad
"We have asked hotel owners to make the visitors understand the present situation and request them to leave Puri," said additional district magistrate, Puri, Bijay Kumar Dash.
Popular tourist sites of the state, including the Konark Sun Temple, had already been closed for visitors as a precautionary measure.
"The hotel owners were told to ensure that all rooms should be vacated within two days," said assistant tourist officer, Puri, Bijay Kumar Jena.
The ADM said this after holding a meeting with hotel owners.
The hotel and lodges have been advised to report to the authorities about the visitors on a daily basis, Dash said.
Instructions have also been issued to close all offices of travel and tour operators in Puri, he said.
https://youtu.be/sUJ5fN7bODI
Meanwhile, the district police have intensified checking on entry points to prevent outsiders from entering Puri district.
The police on Wednesday sent back 15 tourists buses carrying hundreds of tourists from the entry points of Puri, the official said.
Besides tourist buses, travel agents and tour operators use taxis to transport visitors to the town.
The tourists have also been prevented from visiting the sea beaches in Puri and Konark, the official said.
Hoteliers in Odisha sought the state government's help in overcoming the financial crisis faced by them in the wake of the novel coronavirus outbreak.
The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO), a body of private hotels, has sent a memorandum to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik over the issue.
"We appreciate the steps taken by the state government to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The HRAO pledges full support to the government.
"But the travel, trade and hotel industry of Odisha is going to bear a huge financial burden as many inbound tourists are cancelling their bookings," HRAO chairman J K Mohanty said.
He said bookings for conferences, banquets and marriages have been cancelled in most of the hotels.
"We have taken loans from banks. In the current situation, it seems difficult for us to pay interests and EMIs. The state government should advise the banks to cooperate with us and defer payment of EMIs and interests till the situation normalises," the memorandum said.
The HRAO also requested the government to waive State GST till normalcy is restored.
"The state government should also try and convince the Centre for a similar step. There should be complete GST holiday for the tourism, travel and hospitality industry for the next 12 months," the association demanded.
The HRAO also sought fee-waivers for the upcoming renewal of licenses and permits (such as BMC Holding Tax, Ground Water Fee, Electricity Fee) for the hospitality and travel industry till normalcy is restored.
There should be an immediate sanction of funds to reimburse PF, ESIC, professional tax and salaries of employees in the industry, HRAO added.
Meanwhile, government’s chief spokesperson on coronavirus Subrato Bagchi informed that the lone coronavirus positive patient of the State is doing well and his condition is stable.
The 33-year-old researcher, who had recently returned from Italy, is lodged at the state-run Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar.
Bagchi said out of the 47 samples tested in the state so far, 46 have been found negative and one positive.
"The lone positive patient is doing well and is stable," he said.
Replying to a question, Bagchi said contacts of the positive case have been traced and they have been advised home isolation.
He said currently 18 people have been kept in quarantine in different hospitals.
On the facilities available in the state, he said all district headquarters hospitals and Medical College hospitals have isolation wards.
Currently, 540 isolation beds are in readiness across the state in government and private hospitals. Quarantine facilities have been identified up to the Block level, across the State, he said.
So far, about 2,131 registrations have been made, of persons with travel history abroad, Bagchi said.
The state government has meanwhile issued an advisory to all religious institutions for social distancing and other measures while dealing with the devotees.
"The pilgrims, priests, servitors and other security personnel engaged in religious places to be protected from the virus infection. Agencies/Boards/Trusts/Governing institutions are advised to ensure implementation of the guideline," he said.
The government also issued guidelines for protection of labourers, domestic animals and disinfection of ATMs.
"Volunteers of OSDMA (Odisha State Disaster Mitigation Authority) will inspect the ATM counters to cross-check the sanitary operations undertaken by Bank Authorities and any violation will be viewed seriously," the government spokesperson said.
The driving license and learners license tests under all RTO offices have been suspended till March 31 as per orders by Transport Commissioner, he added.
The state government also requested the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) to disseminate the coronavirus advisory among people through SMS and voice message.
So far 6323 buildings have been identified in Panchayats to facilitate for temporary medical camp if the need arises.
Also Read: Coronavirus Pandemic Needs Collective Action: Odisha Governor
Similarly, 261 buildings have been identified in Urban local bodies, he said.
All these buildings are in 97 ULBs out of total 6797 GPS in the state, Bagchi informed.
(PTI)
The reference to women/girls as coronavirus has led to a backlash not only on social media, but also from the industry with many claiming that the song is disrespectful towards the entire women fraternity.
“Yes, being an artiste, I respect creativity of people. But how can someone compare women with coronavirus? Are women so infectious and deadly? The song has devalued the awareness being created on coronavirus. The lyricist, production house, composer and the singer- they are collectively responsible for such a blunder,” condemned BJP leader Pinki Pradhan.
She said, “No doubt, Humane Sagar is a good friend of mine, but if he hurts women ideologies I won’t tolerate. Being a respected member of the ruling-BJD, he has to take the onus. Also, is this what his master and party supremo CM Naveen preaches?”
https://youtu.be/KvnmEQAL5yA
Odisha Swabhimani Manch too lodged a complaint with the city DCP seeking action against the singer as well as the lyricist, music director and producer so that ‘henceforth singers or writers won’t dare to come up with such a song that disregards women’.
“Women are worshipped at times. And there are instances when the same women are portrayed as Sukuti Sahoo and Coronavirus. The word used in the song is absolutely impudent for a woman that’s why we want strict action against the singer Humane Sagar and all those involved in the making and release of the song,” said women activist Lina Nandita Parida.
Demanding a ban on the song, she said it is indecent and also has a degrading influence on the society.
Amid severe criticism, Humane Sagar has released a video on social media in which he has tendered an apology for the ‘coronavirus’ song. “I consider people of Odisha as my God. It is because of everyone’s blessings that I am here. I would like to clarify that the song was recorded a month before its release when the virus had not spread its tentacles. Even I was little clueless about the pandemic situation. The moment I learnt that fans are slamming it, I asked the makers to delete the video from YouTube requesting them that it has tarnished my image. Despite the fact that the song had garnered massive 3 million views, it was deleted. I respect women and there is no denying this.”
https://youtu.be/0nKM5V2WcB4
In what appears to be a repercussion of the ‘Jhia Nuhe Tu Coronavirus’ song, three persons were caught hold of and beaten black and blue for allegedly passing lewd comments on girls at a petrol pump near Kalpana square in Bhubaneswar.
The incident which occurred Tuesday night has reportedly been captured on CCTV. It is being said that the youths engaged in a verbal duel with three girls who had also come to refuel their vehicles at the filling station. Situation went out of hands when the youths allegedly called them ‘coronavirus’, and in moments onlookers thrashed them to teach them a lesson.
Also Read: Coronavirus Rumour-Mongers Arrested In Odisha
According to sources, the girls as well as filling station owner has lodged police complaint in this regard. Countering the allegations, the accused youths have also filed a complaint.
Chairman of the technical committee constituted to combat coronavirus, Subrat Acharya said, “There will be no problem and if we can contain it for a month, millions of people in the State can be protected.”
As per Acharya, the number of elderly and persons suffering from several heart-related ailments and diabetes is high and they are most vulnerable to coronavirus infection. To fight the disease, cooperation from people at all level is a must, he added.
The decision to suspend Inter-State bus services can play a crucial role in checking spread of the coronavirus infections as already confirmed cases are on a rise in several States like Kerala and Maharashtra in the country.
Odisha government’s COVID-19 spokesperson Subroto Bagchi while addressing a presser yesterday informed that out of 47 samples, 46 have tested negative and the condition of the lone person tested positive in the State is stable.
Also Read: COVID19 Advisory For Odisha Banks, Bhubaneswar Markets To Shut By 6PM Everyday
The technical committee members urged people to report and register on the State COVID19 portal if they have returned from any other country or State affected by coronavirus outbreak. Self-disclosure is now a key for administration in tracking and containing the virus outbreak in the State.
The state government is providing an incentive of Rs 15,000 for registration of foreign returnees for isolating themselves at their homes.
Committee also lauded the pro-active efforts of Odisha government to contain the coronavirus. Director of Directorate of Medical Education & Training (DMET), CBK Mohanty, who is also a member of the technical committee, said that people should not panic and follow the advisory issued by the State government on coronavirus.
“Odisha is the first State which had begun screening of passengers at airports soon after the outbreak of coronavirus in other countries. At present, aggressive preparedness and measures are in place to tackle the situation,” said Mohanty.
Also Read: Odisha CM’s sister in home isolation for coronavirus on return from abroad
With ‘social distancing’ the key to fight against coronavirus, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday issued an advisory regarding the closure of several business and commercial units under its jurisdiction in the Smart City.
In a bid to regulate the congregation of people, BMC has already ordered for closure of bars, coffee shops, eateries and shopping complexes.
However, all the grocery shops and other shops selling essential items like vegetables, milk, egg and meat will remain open for the convenience of people.
#OdishaShutsDown: #Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation releases list of shops which will remain closed in its territorial jurisdiction until further orders #OdishaFightsCorona #Coronavirus pic.twitter.com/sUpOR2APyY
— OTV (@otvnews) March 20, 2020
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation in its latest directive ordered closure of a number of shops and business establishment as a precautionary measure to contain the outbreak of coronavirus.
Here’s a detail list of shops/godowns and showrooms which will remain closed in Bhubaneswar from today:
Senior officials informed that such restrictions have been enforced by BMC Commissioner who has been empowered under clause 3 and 11 of the ‘Odisha COVID-19 Regulation, 2020’ to prevent and contain the outbreak of coronavirus under the civic body jurisdiction.
#Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation orders closure of all parks owned by government & private authorities within BMC limit till March 31. Order comes into effect from March 22 #Odisha#OdishaFightsCorona #IndiaFightsCorona #CoronavirusOutbreak pic.twitter.com/b1Q7AG1Jeb
— OTV (@otvnews) March 21, 2020
Also Read: Coronavirus: Odisha Inches Towards Complete Lockdown, Restaurants, Bars, Eateries Shut
In a letter to Commissionerate Police, BMC has urged senior officers including Zonal Deputy Commissioners to ensure that all the above-mentioned shops, godowns and showrooms remain closed in their respective jurisdiction.
Earlier, the General Administration & Public Grievance Department yesterday ordered the closure of coffee shops, all stand-alone restaurants, canteens where large number of people dine and congregate.
All hotels in Odisha have been directed to maintain a social distance of 2 meters among the guests and encourage customers for takeaways.
All business establishments under Cuttack Municipal Corporation to shut shutters until further orders as a precautionary measure against #CoronavirusOutbreak; only those shops & establishments extending emergency services to remain open, inform CMC officials#OdishaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/4h17cFykoE
— OTV (@otvnews) March 21, 2020
According to the announcement of the CM, five districts and eight major towns in the State will be locked-down from 7 AM on March 22 till 9 PM on March 29. The districts of Khurda, Ganjam, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Angul, along with towns of Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Balasore, Bhadrak, Puri, Jajpur Road, Jajpur Town and Rourkela will be covered under this lockdown.
All activities excluding some essential works will remain suspended during the lockdown period. Bus, train and air services will be available while grocery shops, vegetables shops, meat, fish, egg shops, petrol pumps and medicine shops will remain open during the lockdown period. The wholesale market of essential commodities will also remain open.
Also Read: Covid-19 Outbreak: IAS IPS Officers In Odisha Lead From The Front
Emergency services like hospitals, banks, ATM counters, municipality services, police, fire services, ODRAF, drinking water and electricity supplies will also remain available. Administrative offices will also remain open.
Disbursement of social security pensions and public distribution system will remain suspended in the five districts and eight towns during the lockdown period. The district collectors can suspend any service after reviewing the situation.
We are going for near-complete lockdown from 7AM tomorrow till 9PM of Mar 29 in Khurdha, Cuttack, Ganjam, Kendrapada, Angul districts & in towns of Puri, Rourkela, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Balasore, Jajpur Road, Jajpur Town, Bhadrak in view of #Covid_19: #Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik pic.twitter.com/DWfm50BMZ0
— OTV (@otvnews) March 21, 2020
The private companies in those places have been directed to implement work from home policy. If they fail to do so, they have to take permission from the district collectors to continue the offices.
Also Read: Coronavirus Restrictions: Here Is The List Of Shops That Will Remain Closed
The announcement further stated that private service providers who are engaged in prevention of COVID19 have been included under emergency services.
Stay at home & come out only for basic services because you risk bringing #coronavirus to your family: #Odisha CM ordering near-complete lockdown in 5 districts & 8 major towns of the State till March 29#OdishaFightsCorona #IndiaFightCorona #Covid_19 pic.twitter.com/s2b0coG4LJ
— OTV (@otvnews) March 21, 2020
The CM further said the lockdown has been ordered keeping in view the interest of the public and police have been directed to take stringent action against those who will violate it.
Read More: Coronavirus Update: COVID-19 Cases Rise To 271 In India
Here's the formal notification issued by the Odisha government laying out the details pertaining to the lockdown in five districts and eight major towns of the State from March 22 to March 29.
Near total lockdown will be implemented across 5 districts & some towns across #Odisha from 22nd March, 7 AM to 29th March, 9 PM. Follow the advisory incase you need to go outside to procure essential commodities. #7DayOdishaLockdown @CMO_Odisha pic.twitter.com/SR4n8zVELk
— H & FW Dept Odisha (@HFWOdisha) March 21, 2020
An FIR was lodged against the family of a person residing in Sailashree Vihar area of Bhubaneswar. As per reports, despite being asked to stay under home quarantine, the person was seen moving in a local market violating Odisha government's COVID-19 guidelines.
DCP Bhubaneswar tweeted saying that a criminal case has been registered in the Chandrasekharpur Police Station against the man and his wife, who had violated the prescribed quarantine rule. Later the couple was moved to a government quarantine facility.
Read Also: Lord Jagannath In Lockdown For 144-Yrs, Covid-19 Lockdown Mere 8-Days: Bagchi
In the second instance, a resident of Puri Ghat area of Cuttack who had recently returned from USA was asked to stay at home but was spotted roaming in a market. Following which an FIR was lodged against him and the person was sent to institutional quarantine.
“We have registered a criminal case under Puri Ghat PS in Cuttack against an individual for violating home quarantine norms. Those asked to stay in home quarantine must strictly remain in isolation or be prepared for serious consequences,” tweeted Police Commissioner Sudhansu Sarangi.
Read Also: Odisha Still Not Off The Covid-19 Hook, 28 Still In Hospital Isolation!
In another incident, a case was registered against a person, who recently returned from Uzbekistan, in Dhanupali Police Station of Sambalpur, for violating home quarantine guidelines.
Earlier today, State government’s COVID-19 spokesperson Subroto Bagchi informed 3,474 persons from Odisha who travelled abroad, have registered themselves under the Odisha government's Covid-19 portal, number of positive cases still at 2 while 28 persons are currently in isolation in hospitals.
Several parts of Bhubaneswar witnessed usual traffic jam with people seen waiting at traffic posts with their vehicles even though the State government has asked people to avoid non-essential travel as much possible and also ordered to shut operations of various types of business establishments.
A day after pan-India #JantaCurfew & implementation of #lockdown in major cities of #Odisha in view of #COVID19outbreak, Bhubaneswar witnesses usual traffic jam. Police monitoring the situation & allowing only essential travel. #coronavirusinindia #Covid19India pic.twitter.com/gMHG8Re3ms
— OTV (@otvnews) March 23, 2020
The government has already issued strict guidelines to ensure implementation of social distancing norms to avoid spread of the Covid-19 in the State.
Read Also: Janta Curfew And Lockdown In Odisha: Passengers Stranded At Bhubaneswar Airport
As part of its efforts, the Commissionerate Police has also announced to issue pass to commuters to help them continue their essential and emergency services during the lockdown period till March 29. On the other hand, Twin City Police Commissioner Sudhansu Sarangi has urged everyone to refrain from stepping out of their homes if it is not necessary and minimise social interaction.
A day after Janata Curfew, as people may have to go out for urgent work, Sarangi has urged them to take pass while going to bus stand, railway station or airport.
“We are in a period of shutdown till 29th. Please avoid unnecessary travel. Walk down to nearby shop to buy grocery and vegetables. Don’t visit anyone or be visited by anyone. Please minimise social interaction and maintain social distance,” tweeted Sarangi.
People working in different offices have been asked to carry their identity cards and inform police by dialling 100 in case they have to travel urgently.
The Commissioner said that special arrangements have been done to issue pass to those people during the lockdown period and has warned that action will be taken against those who violate guidelines.
Meanwhile, inter-state bus service has been suspended in Odisha. Subroto Bagchi, chief spokesperson of Odisha government on COVID-19, said inter-state buses coming from other states will not be allowed to reach their destination in Odisha after 11 AM on March 23.
Similarly, no inter-state bus will be allowed to operate to other state from Odisha after 11 AM on March 23.
However, the State government has decided that all permitted goods vehicles will be allowed to move unhindered during the lockdown period.
The Odisha government has formed a state-level monitoring unit on goods and services. The committee shall assess requirements and monitor flow of goods and take actions to remove bottlenecks if any. It will also create a platform to facilitate traders and transporters to take up their issues and resolve the same, said Bagchi.
There won't be any restriction on the movement of permitted goods which includes coal and other minerals to ensure smooth supply chain, he added.
On the other hand, the State government has issued a toll free number 15535 for complaints regarding supply of items to consumers during the lockdown period.
From Janta curfew to a complete lockdown, people in Odisha are extending their support in the best possible way to fight the Coronavirus. Amid a lot of information flow through print, electronic and social media, a lot of people seem a little confused on what should be their approach and what should they do during the lockdown period.
Odisha Police has come up with answers to some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Question: What is meant by "lockdown" as imposed by Odisha government?
Answer: It is a situation where because of a public health emergency like COVID19 all public/private offices/shops/establishments are closed by law (except those exempted) and restrictions are imposed on the movement of people.
Question: Under which law the lockdown has been ordered?
Answer: It has been ordered under the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897
Question: In which districts the lockdown is applicable and till when?
Answer: It is applicable for entire Odisha till March 29. (It is like to be revised in view of the revised 21-day nationwide lockdown as announced by PM Modi yesterday)
Also Read: Zero Tolerance Towards Coronavirus Lockdown Violations: Odisha Govt
Question: What will happen if you do not obey the lockdown order?
Answer: You are liable to be arrested and prosecuted under section 188,269, 270 and 271 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Question: Who are allowed to move from home to place of work?
Answer: Only those persons who are employed in the list of essential services are allowed to go for work. However, they should follow social distancing norms and not gather or travel in a group more than 7. All other citizens should remain at home and proceed to work.
Question: What should I do if I need to buy essential items?
Answer: Yes you may go to buy essential items to the store/shop in your locality. However to minimize chances of infection, either you should be alone or at the most accompanied by one family member and should follow the social distancing norm.
Question: Are religious/political/social/marriage gatherings allowed?
Answer: Any gathering in which seven or more persons are expected are not allowed.
Question: I am a businessman and my industry is not listed in the list of essential services? What should I do?
Answer: Approach your local Collector for resolution. However, you are advised to refrain from running industry if same is not categorized as essential services.
Also Read: Covid-19 Bomb Ticking In Odisha: 100 Have N-CoV Symptoms, 45 In Hospital Isolation!
Question: My child, parent or relative has to go to cities in other States for some urgent work or reach back home, what should I advise him?
Answer: Everyone should stay where they are till the lockdown is lifted.
As per the advisory of Odisha Police, people should contact State health department on 0674 2390466 or on mobile- 9439994857/ 9439994859 or dial 100 (police control room) for any COVID19 related emergency.
It may be noted that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and Odisha government have clearly laid down the lockdown regulations barring any kind of religious congregation which may invite public participation and also specifically mentioned that all such institutions like temples, mosques, churches and Gurudwaras will be closed for public as a precautionary measure against the viral outbreak.
Also Read: Odisha Fights Corona: State Drowns In Emptiness Amid Lockdown
However, the norms also mentioned that any important rituals pertaining to famous shrines like Srimandir or Lord Lingaraj Temple can also be completed customarily without participation of public.
A reality check at the Lord Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar showed that despite enforcement of social distancing norms, the construction of Lord Lingaraj’s chariot could be seen going on in full swing.
As per the chief architect of the chariot, Batakrushna Maharana, construction of the chariot had begun eight days before Dola Purnima with 70 artisans toiling day in and out to complete the work before 31st March 2020.
Speaking about the guidelines issued by the government on Coronavirus, Batakrushna said, “We haven’t faced any problems in the construction yet. Though we know the guidelines, it’s our duty to complete the chariot before time.”
“We all know about the lockdown and the rules pertaining to that, but we, as servitors have been exempted from its ambit. We were not barred to perform rituals of the Lord,” explained a servitor.
Similarly, another carpenter engaged in the construction of the chariot said, “We don’t have any other option and we’ll have to come out of home in order to complete the work before Lord Lingaraj’s chariot rolls out on Ashokastami.”
Uncertainty looms over the observance of Rukuna Rath Yatra of Lord Lingaraj in the wake of #coronavirus outbreak #Covid_19india #21daysLockdown pic.twitter.com/rIi3vQCrCb
— OTV (@otvnews) March 25, 2020
Congress leader and Jatni MLA Sura Routray, while welcoming the decision by PM Modi and CM Naveen Patnaik to enforce strict lockdown measures has requested the state to not cancel Rukuna Rath Yatra by any means.
Also Read: COVID-19 Fightback: Odisha Govt Invites Applications To Appoint Doctors & Paramedics
“The rituals of Lord Lingaraj shouldn’t stop at any cost. The police personnel and the servitors of the Lord can pull the chariot if needed, but the chariot must roll,” said Routray.
https://youtu.be/k5G_Ni-DizU
Transportation of essential items (medical supplies, medical equipment, food items etc) is going to be very important during the lockdown period in the wake of COVID19. In order to mitigate the difficulties to a certain extent, the Indian Railways had come forward and decided to open its services for transportation of essential items in parcel special trains (up to 20 VPUs), stated the ECoR.
Also Read: COVID-19: Indian Railways To Refund Full Amount On Tickets Booked From Mar 21 To April 14
As part of the decision by the Indian Railways, the East Coast Railways has offered interested parties, including businessmen and traders to immediately contact ECoR officials with their proposals, if any, so that ‘time tabled runs can be introduced’, an official release of ECoR read.
The ECoR also mentioned that the Western Railway division has finalised a time tabled Parcel Express train to the ECoR from Kankariya near Ahmedabad in Gujarat to Cuttack which will transport essential goods such as milk product, edible oil, spices, groceries, and biscuits
“In addition to these, other probable parcel cargo trains are under consideration and can be finalised subjected to local administration permitting movement of trucks and labour handling at originating and terminating points. Talks with concerned traders are also going on in this regard,” added ECoR in the release.
Interested traders and businessmen, NGOs and others can contact the following officials of ECoR in case they want to send materials to any destination:
Senior Divisional Commercial Managers at Sambalpur- SambeetNayak, Mobile No- 8455886950
Read More: COVID-19: Govt Mulls Converting Railways Coaches Into Isolation Wards
Khurda Road- P K Samal, Mobile No- 8455887950
Waltair- Suneel Kumar, Mobile No- 8978080950
Deputy Chief Commercial Manager at Bhubaneswar- HL Luwang HL Luwang, Mobile No- 8455885955
In view of the economic impact caused due to the lockdown and expenditures incurred to control COVID-19, the government has opted for deferment of wages and salaries, a release from the State government stated.
As per the release, there will be a 70% deferment in gross salary of the Chief Minister, ministers, MLAs, chairperson of corporations and elected representatives of all local bodies.
Similarly, there will be a deferment of 50% of gross salary of IAS, IPS & IFS officers with immediate effect.
Meanwhile, the IPS and IAS Associations here have extended their support to the deferment of 50% of the gross salary. The associations said that their members firmly stands with the people of Odisha at this time of crisis.
On the other hand, Telangana government has reportedly decided to impose big salary cuts ranging from 10 per cent to 75 per cent for its employees, executive and political representatives. As per reports, there will be cuts for all Public Sector Undertakings, institutions receiving grants by the government, government employees and retirees.
Read More: COVID-19 Lockdown: District Collectors Directed To Make Food & Shelter Arrangement For Needy
"There will be 60 per cent salary cut for IAS, IPS, IFS and other such central services officers while for all other categories of employees, there will be a 50 per cent salary deduction. For Class-IV, outsourcing and contract employees, there will be a 10 per cent salary cut," Rao added.
Similarly, Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray has also announced 60 per cent pay cut for MLAs while the Grade A and B officers will get a 50 per cent salary deduction. However, there will be no salary cut for Grade D employees.
You may Like: ‘Over 1500 Coronavirus Lockdown, 61 Quarantine Violation Cases Registered In Odisha’
Later, Maharashtra Finance Minister Ajit Pawar said that the salary deduction is applicable for the month of March only.
Informing about the decision of the government, Odisha Health Minister Naba Das said that his department now gearing itself for establishment of the COVID-19 hospitals following the direction of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
"We will soon establish COVID-19 hospitals across the State on a pilot basis with the help of private hospitals," said Das appealing people to help the State contain coronavirus spread by staying at home and strictly following the lockdown guidelines.
Besides, Das held a meeting with the authorities of some private hospitals at the Jharsuguda collectorate for the establishment a special hospital in the district.
Also Read: Covid-19 Odisha: 3 From Odisha Attended Tablighi Jammat In Delhi
Das further informed that the Union Health Ministry has given permission for opening of COVID-19 testing centres at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. Odisha government has also demanded more testing centres at different private and government hospitals in the State, he added.
With the new centre to test samples of suspected cases of COVID-19 at SCB, the number of such testing facilities in the State has increased to three. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) had earlier approved the Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) and AIIMS in Bhubaneswar for COVID-19 tests.
On the other hand, the concerned State government authorities have reportedly spoken to Union Health Ministry and demanded for PPE, which includes disposable clothing, boots, masks and gloves, for health workers.
Read More: Covid-19 India Trend: 44% Positives Belong To 18-30 Yrs In Country!
Meanwhile, Odisha government has ratcheted up its efforts in tackling the coronavirus pandemic by adopting a zero tolerance towards lockdown violations and sealing the inter-state borders.
Odisha has deployed 162 platoons of police force, over 700 additional Sub-Inspectors and over 1,000 vehicles are being used for enforcement of the lockdown. And so far, around 1,500 cases have been registered for violation of the lockdown norms in the State.
The Odisha Health & Family Welfare Department took to Twitter to inform about the sixth COVID-19 positive case of the State detected in Cuttack with recent travel history to Delhi.
Read Also: Odisha’s First COVID-19 Patient Tests Negative, Being Discharged: Health Dept
Earlier in the day, the patient-1 infected with coronavirus in Odisha was reportedly tested negative at Capital hospital in Bhubaneswar. The State Health Department informed that the patient has recovered and is completely healthy now. As per latest reports, he is being discharged from the hospital.
In another major development today, Odisha Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy today announced that a complete shutdown will be imposed in Bhubaneswar and Bhadrak town for 48 hours from 8 PM today as a precautionary measure to prevent any community transmission of COVID-19.
Later, a complete shutdown was also enforced in Cuttack for 48 hours from 8 PM tonight following detection of a positive COVID-19 case in the city.
Read Also: COVID-19: Complete Shutdown In Bhubaneswar & Bhadrak Town For 48 Hours From 8 PM Today
Poor Pradipta Dalabehera! He must be feeling cheated at earning the ‘dubious distinction’ of being the only person in the state named as having tested positive for the deadly n-Corona virus. While revealing not just his name but other crucial details like his plot number and the area he lived in on Thursday, Bhubaneswar Municipal Commissioner (BMC) Commissioner Premchand Choudhury said the decision to name him was taken after weighing respect for privacy of an individual against the ‘larger public interest’, which he said necessitated the revelation. An exception to the general principle of keeping the victim’s identity under wraps was made in Dalabehera’s case, he explained, because he had ‘no history of travel to foreign countries or even to other states in the country in the recent past’. The revelation was followed almost immediately by the ‘sealing’ of the whole Suryanagar area due to fears that this could have marked the beginning of the dangerous ‘community transmission’ phase!
Just 48 hours later, the same Mr Choudhury told the media, without so much as batting an eyelid, that though Dalabehera himself did not have any history of travel outside the state, a member of his family, who has also tested positive for the virus, did travel to Kolkata recently! Of course, it would be wrong to blame the BMC Commissioner for the faux pas because he is too junior in the hierarchy to have taken the call entirely on himself. The decision to make an exception and rescind its own well laid out policy to make an exception in such a sensitive case must have been taken at the highest quarters by people who are supposedly leading the ‘War on Corona’ on behalf of the state government. But at the same time, can we blame Dalabehera if he is feeling aggrieved in his hospital at being made a public spectacle of and dreading the prospect of returning to his place even after he is fully cured (May God save him!). Is he not well within his rights to sue the authorities for violating his ‘right o privacy’?
Irrespective of who took the call, however, the whole sorry episode has thrown up several questions that must be answered by the authorities. Why did the BMC – and by implication the state government – jump the gun and emphatically announced that Dalabehera had no recent history of travel outside the state and then followed it up by spreading panic in the whole area by sealing off Suryanagar from all sides? Why could it not wait a little longer to find out if anyone else in his family may have gone outside in the recent past? Now that it has been confirmed that it was no different from any of the previous cases detected and was not a case of community transmission as initially suspected, will it spare the people living in Suryanagar the hardships by lifting the sealing right away and apologizing to Dalabehera for having breached his privacy?
I remember having questioned the logic behind the decision to name Dalabehera in a social media post barely minutes after it was announced by Mr Choudhury on TV on Thursday. There was a flurry of comments from friends, who jumped to the government’s defence and ‘explained’ why it was necessary. Almost all of them cited the same reason Mr Choudhury himself had cited to justify the decision: the fact that Dalabehera’s case was unlike the other cases in that he did not travel out, making ‘contact tracing’ difficult in his case. But somehow, I was not convinced and kept protesting, though feebly, why someone with a history of recent travel outside is less dangerous. The answers that I got did nothing to clear my confusion.
But I realized my query was not misplaced when the state government announced a complete 48-hour shutdown in the entire Bhubaneswar city, besides Bhadrak and Cuttack, around noon on Friday. It was done, we were told after Corona positive cases were detected at all these places. “Why is the whole bustling city of Cuttack being brought to a complete shutdown after detection of just one case – and that too of a person who was found to have attended the Tableeghi Jamaat religious gathering in Delhi’s Nizamuddin? What happened to the logic of outside travel that was used by the government and many others to explain away the withholding the identity of other victims?” I wondered.
Read: Column: Odisha Needs More Like Him
I felt further vindicated when the authorities announced sealing of the whole Bomikhal area in the Capital city late on Friday night after three positive cases were detected there. If Suryanagar was sealed and Dalabehera’s name made public, why were the identities of the three from Bomikhal who had tested positive being kept away from the public? The BMC Commissioner revealed late on Saturday evening that the father of the three persons, who are brothers, had travelled to Bhopal. In that case, why were the people of Bomikhal put to untold miseries by sealing off the whole area? Where, I wondered, was the need to seal the area when the whole city was under an unprecedented 48-hour shutdown anyway?
In fact, the whole argument that ‘contact racing’ is child’s play in case of those with recent history of travel outside the state was hit for a six by the Jajpur Collector, who revealed on Saturday that the person identified as a Corona positive case in Brahmabarada, a Maulvi, was not at all cooperating by revealing the identities of all those he had come in contact with since returning from the Markaz on March 18? He stopped just short of accusing the Maulvi of lying, but made it clear that it was difficult to believe that the Maulvi had come in contact with just 13 people in the meanwhile! This was what I apprehended from the very beginning. While contact tracing, do the authorities have any means of finding out the total number of people someone has come in contact with except to take his word at face value? What if s/he, like the Maulvi in Jajpur, lies and decides to take the authorities on a wild goose chase? The whole logic used to justify the withholding of names of those with recent history of travel outside Odisha thus fall flat on its face!
I am no expert on Corona or privacy laws. But the little that I have read on how the rest of the world is tackling the Corona menace suggests there are no universally accepted norms about the desirability of revealing identities and each country – and even each state – has been left free to take a call that it deems fit. The Odisha government too used precisely this leverage to reveal the name in one case while hiding it in the case of all others. Even in a country with very strong privacy laws like US, healthcare authorities have been given the freedom to decide on it after weighing individual privacy and greater public interest. But in a country like India where there is a general reluctance to come out into the open and offer themselves to be tested, quarantined and treated by those who have reasons to suspect they may be carrying the virus – and not be honest about it even when identified, as in the Maulvi’s case in Jajpur – the greater public good has to override the right to privacy of an individual because failure to do so could prove disastrous for the country as a whole. If the government, in its wisdom, decides to go by the Supreme Court ruling that right to privacy is a fundamental right under the Constitution, it should be applied uniformly in all cases without any exceptions whatsoever. Pick and choose will simply not do.
Also Read: Column: Fight Against COVID-19 Caught Between Complacency And Panic
On balance, therefore, I am of the firm view that there is a strong case for revealing the names of ALL those who test positive, irrespective of their recent travel history, to save others who might have come in contact with such a person unknowingly.
(DISCLAIMER: This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same)
State Health and Family Welfare department informed that 16 new cases of Covid-19 have been detected in Bhubaneswar which has now become the hotspot of the Coronavirus infection in the entire State. The total number of Covid-19 cases in Odisha has now risen to 39 out of which Bhubaneswar alone accounts for 32 cases.
16 more COVID positive cases confirmed in Bhubaneswar.
— H & FW Dept Odisha (@HFWOdisha) April 5, 2020
Further informing about the development, the Health department clarified that 15 out of the total 16 new cases detected today belong to Bomikhal area of the city which has been sealed.
Also Read: As Odisha Prepares For ‘9Baje9Minute’ For COVID19, Mind The Dos & Don’ts
The government has urged public not to panic and stay indoors. "Cluster containment has been put in place and house to house survey is going on. All suspects and contacts shall be isolated and tested," the State health department tweeted.
About 15 of the new cases detected today belong to Bomikhal which has been sealed. Cluster containment has been put in place and house to house survey is going on. All suspects and contacts shall be isolated and tested. Citizens are urged not to panic and stay indoors.
— H & FW Dept Odisha (@HFWOdisha) April 5, 2020
The sudden spike in number of Coronavirus cases in Bhubaneswar comes just an hour after the 48-hour shutdown was lifted from the capital city.
Earlier in the day, the State Health & Family Welfare Department informed that the capital city had recorded two positive cases of Coronavirus.
Taking to twitter, Chief Minister's Office has also asked the public not to panic but sincerely follow the lockdown guidelines in a strict manner.
"People need not panic. It’s in a contained area of Bhubaneswar with known contact. Sincere appeal - please don’t venture out and respect lockdown. Police will take very tough action on violators," the CMO tweeted.
Also Read: COVID-19 Crisis: Centre Releases Rs 17,287 Cr To States, Odisha To Get Rs 802 Cr
Meanwhile, the State Health Secretary Nikunja Dhal asked Municipal Commissioners, Collectors and CDM/PHOs to provide triple layer surgical masks to persons under quarantine at home and in facilities. Odisha State Medical Corporation Limited has been directed to supply the masks.
In Odisha, two Covid-19 patients have so far been discharged after they recovered from the disease while others are under treatment at various designated COVID hospitals.
https://youtu.be/1CwnmZDVGSE
“One of the staff of the Intelligence Bureau had come in contact with a COVID-19 patient. We have collected some swab samples of some staff including the employee who came in contact with the coronavirus positive patient, for testing and some more samples will also be collected today,” informed BMC Commissioner Prem Chandra Chaudhury today.
The employees have been kept under quarantine for 14 days from April 6 to April 19, said reports.
Also Read: One More COVID-19 Positive Case In Odisha
“The employees have been quarantined until we get the reports of the swab samples. However, the staff can work from inside the office,” added Chaudhury.
The IB office will be sanitised by the BMC and a team of Health department will also visit the office for an inspection today.
It is worth mentioning that a 32-year-old youth of Kendrapara who had come to Odisha from Dubai on March 24 was confirmed positive for Coronavirus by the State Health and Family Welfare Department yesterday. With the new case, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases rose to 40 in Odisha.
The youth identified as a native of Aul block in the district has been admitted to Ashwini Hospital in Cuttack for treatment. Sources said the Kendrapara district administration has sealed the COVID-19 patient’s village and its nearby 11 villages.
“The youth, a resident of Aul area, has been admitted to Ashwini Hospital in Cuttack last night for preliminary treatment. His family members have been kept under home quarantine and their swab samples have also been sent for testing. The youth’s village and its nearby 11 villages have been sealed. We will start the health screening of the villagers today,” informed Kendrapara District Collector Samarth Verma.
"The #Kendrapara youth tested positive with #COVID19 is a resident of Aul & has been admitted to Ashwini Hospital in Cuttack. Native village of the patient & other villages in 3 km periphery have been shutdown," informs Kendrapara district Collector Samarth Verma #Odisha pic.twitter.com/B5RTGuJuHZ
— OTV (@otvnews) April 7, 2020
“Sanitisation work in the villages has started since yesterday and there is no need to panic,” added Verma.
Read More: Training Of MBBS Students & Others To Fight COVID-19
On Monday, around 302 samples were tested including 261 at RMRC, 36 at AIIMS and 5 at SCB, informed State Health and Family Welfare Department.
Later, 20 more samples were tested at SCB Hospital in Cuttack which also tested negative, added the department.
Since the Tablighi episode has turned the Covid-19 map upside down in many states like Tamil Nadu, Assam and Delhi, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik made an appeal on April 4 to the members of Tablighi Jamaat returnees in Odisha to voluntarily dial corona helpline .
As per information provided by Subroto Bagchi, chief Covid-19 spokesperson, today, a total of 42 Tablighi Jamaat returnees have voluntarily registered themselves in State's corona helpline. Earlier, the State government had identified 28 such returnees in the State. The government again appeals all Tablighi returnees in the State to enrol in the corona helpline, Bagchi reiterated and added that Odisha government will provide all necessary help and free treatment to Covid-19 positives.
Meanwhile, as the 104 helpline has been proving Odisha government's corona lifeline with 12000 - 14000 dials every day, the State government has launched more technologically advanced and dedicated Covid-19 telemedicine helpline.
A dedicated number 14410 laced with the interactive voice response system (IVRS), managed by Delhi-based StepOne, will provide 24X7 exclusive medical counselling and expert services to all Covid-19 patients in the State, said Krishan Kumar, senior IAS and Works Secretary.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday made an appeal to the doctors to support state government's dedicated COVID-19 telemedicine helpline.
"I am appealing to all the doctors, across the state and India, to support the government in this initiative. Please come forward and register to provide free service to people exhibiting coronavirus-like symptoms," he said and added that doctors willing to provide their voluntary services in the fight against COVID-19 can register themselves at www.bit.ly//IndiaTeleMed.
The State government today claimed that 300 doctors have volunteered to join the state government's dedicated Covid-19 telemedicine helpline.
Moreover, not to see an Italy redux, the State government plans to establish 34 exclusive Covid-19 hospitals in the State with a capacity of 5,697 beds. A total of seven such exclusive hospitals with 1497 beds have already started operation in the State, said Bagchi.
"Our battle strategy against Covid-19 is clear. We focus on identification of hotspots, containment and social distancing. In this regard, wearing masks have been made mandatory in State from April 9 (Thursday)," he announced.
Covid-19 update: Total tests conducted 2,212. Total n-CoV active cases in the state stood at 39. Two have recovered and one death reported. A high of 86 Covid-19 suspects are in hospital isolation.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, Bagchi informed that the Centre has laid down certain guidelines for transportation, autopsy and cremation of bodies of coronavirus victims.
Sharing the details about the guidelines for management of dead bodies, Bagchi said as Odisha registered the first death due to coronavirus at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar, the hospital authorities will now hand over the body to the State government after routine procedures. In view of safety of the people of the State, the cremation of the body will be conducted under the direct supervision of the State government, he added.
In case of #Coronavirus deaths, Centre has issued advisory for cremation/funeral; following a death, the hospital will hand over the body to the state govt and the cremation/funeral will be conducted under State govt's watch as per the guidelines: #Odisha Govt Spokesperson pic.twitter.com/l3LuDD4Ae6
— OTV (@otvnews) April 7, 2020
The Centre’s guidelines stated that large gathering at the crematoriums or burial grounds should be avoided as a social distancing measure. Besides, bathing, kissing and hugging of the dead bodies should not be allowed.
Also Read: Covid-19 Trend: Odisha Records 1st Death, N-CoV Cases May Soar To 100-Mark By Mid-April!
The advisory also suggested that the autopsy of the bodies should be avoided. If autopsy is to be performed for special reasons, infection prevention control practices should be adopted.
Here are the details of management of bodies of coronavirus victims:
Standard Precautions to be followed by health care workers while handling dead bodies of Covid-19
Standard infection prevention control practices should be followed at all times.
These include:
Training in infection and prevention control practices
All staff identified to handle dead bodies in the isolation area, mortuary, ambulance and those workers in the crematorium / burial ground should be trained in the infection prevention control practices.
Removal of the body from the isolation room or area
Read More: Coronavirus Patients In Odisha Will Be Treated ‘Only In COVID19 Hospitals’
The exterior of the body bag can be decontaminated with 1% hypochlorite. The body bag can be wrapped with a mortuary sheet or sheet provided by the family members
Environmental cleaning and disinfection
All surfaces of the isolation area (floors, bed, railings, side tables, IV stand, etc.) should be wiped with 1% Sodium Hypochlorite solution; allow a contact time of 30 minutes, and then allowed to air dry.
Handling of dead body in Mortuary
Embalming
Autopsies on COVID-19 dead bodies
Autopsies should be avoided. If autopsy is to be performed for special reasons, the following infection prevention control practices should be adopted:
Also Read: Odisha’s Crucial Corona Fight Focuses On 2 Ts – Tablighis & Technology!
Transportation
At the crematorium/ Burial Ground
Odisha has reported four more COVID-19 positive cases on Tuesday taking the tally of infected people to 60. Earlier today, a resident of Jajpur district with a recent travel history to Kolkata was tested positive.
Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Jena said that home delivery of all kinds of products and courier services by platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Blue Dart, DTDC and BigBasket will resume in the 2nd phase of the lockdown starting from 15th April till 30th April this year. Transportation of seeds, movement of tractor will also be allowed during 2nd phase of lockdown period. Vegetables will be procured directly from farmer producer organisations. All the cold storages and godowns will be kept open.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1249589525338181632
Jena further informed that in view of the harvesting of Rabi crop and the upcoming Kharif season, the government has decided to exempt farming and the subsequent irrigation of the farm lands in the 2nd phase of lockdown. Movement of the equipment and vehicles like tractors will be allowed during this period. All the shops related to manure, sells and repair of agricultural equipment will also remain open.
Read: Extend Lockdown, Facilitate Agri Works But Suspend Rail & Air Services: Odisha CM To PM Modi
In a major respite for truckers and transporters, the roadside dhabas and restaurants will be allowed to open but only for take-away and home-delivery purposes.
Modifying the lockdown rules further, Jena said, “All the Co-Operative banks and LAMPSCS will remain open for the farmers to avail loans for the upcoming Kharif season. The programmes under MGNREGA, PMAY, Biju Pucca Ghar and Swachh Bharat will continue too.”
Odisha is the first state to extend the lockdown till April 30. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also had informed that the State government suggested the Union Government to shut down rail and air services till April 30.
Patnaik, who participated in the meeting online along with Chief Ministers of all other States on Saturday to discuss the coronavirus situation in the country, suggested PM Modi that the nationwide lockdown be extended till April 30 to contain the rising COVID-19 cases from spiralling more.
Besides, all the educational institutions, including schools and colleges in the State will continue to remain closed till June 17, Patnaik had said in a video message.
Earlier, the government had given permission for delivery of food through online delivery operators and grocery by several outlets.
Also Read: COVID19 Lockdown: ECoR Continues Delivery Of Essential Goods In Odisha
Odisha has reported 55 coronavirus positive cases so far. Of these, 13 have recovered whereas one person succumbed to the disease. Now, the active cases are 41 in the state.
(With Agency Inputs)
Rath Yatra, the annual sojourn of the Holy Trinity- Lord Balabhadra, Mahaprabhu Jagannath and Devi Subhadra- is scheduled to begin from June 23 this year. However, with the extension of the lockdown, uncertainty is looming large on the festival which sees congregation of lakhs of devotees. As lockdown has been enforced across the country to stop the spread of COVID19, darshan of deities at Jagannath temple has also been suspended.
“Whether Rath Yatra will be organised or not this year is under discussion. No decision has been taken so far in this regard. We will take a final call on it soon,” Jena said today while speaking to mediapersons.
On the other hand, senior servitor of Puri Srimandir, Damodar Padhani said, “Rath Yatra will be certainly organised this year. Even if the lockdown is extended further after May 3, there will not be any issues in the chariot construction as the wooden logs have reached Puri. Moreover, the chariot construction will begin on June 1.”
Wooden logs brought to #Puri for construction of chariots of the Holy Trinity ahead of Rath Yatra scheduled later this year #Odisha pic.twitter.com/NnNn8oi7nz
— OTV (@otvnews) April 11, 2020
He said there is only one case of Coronavirus in Puri and the administration is tackling the situation very well. In view of the pandemic, no free access should be given to outsiders during the Rath Yatra, he added.
Also Read: Coronavirus Alert: Puri Srimandir To Be Out Of Bounds For Devotees Till March 31
He further said Srimandir servitors have suffered a huge loss due to the ongoing lockdown and demanded that the administration should hold discussions and announce financial package for servitors, who play a major role in Rath Yatra.
“We can defeat coronavirus and hold Rath Yatra,” he added.
Every year lakhs of devotees from across the world throng the pilgrim city to witness the grand festival. The preparations for the annual festival usually start two months in advance.
Speaking on Rath Yatra celebrations, senior servitor Binayak Das Mohapatra said, “Chandan Yatra of Lord Jagannath will be held without devotees due to COVID19 and if the situation does not improve in the near future, Rath Yatra of the Holy Trinity might also have to be organised without public participation.”
Chandan Yatra of Lord Jagannath will be held without devotees due to #COVID19 & if the situation does not improve in the near future, #RathYatra of the Holy Trinity might also have to be organised without public participation: Senior servitor Binayak Das Mohapatra pic.twitter.com/W1i78p6d2f
— OTV (@otvnews) April 15, 2020
Meanwhile, due to the lockdown, Puri Srimandir is facing a shortage of flower and basil leaves (tulsi) which are offered to the deities and used for rituals. In view of the shortage, a devotee, Chintu Baba of Dhenkanal came forward to supply flowers and basil leaves for the deities.
https://youtu.be/kYgfDutxsOo
“When I learnt that there is dearth of flowers and basil leaves in Srimandir, I became restless. I submitted an application to the district collector who helped me obtain a pass to bring flower and basil leaves to Srimandir."
“Even as the nationwide lockdown has been extended till May 3, I will try to ensure that flowers and basil leaves reach the deities,” he added.
Also Read: Coronavirus: Odisha Restricts Tourist Movement In Puri
Speaking about Chintu Baba, a servitor said, “He has been supplying flowers, basil leaves and vegetables to Srimandir since 2014. Even during the cyclone Fani, he contacted me and brought the flowers and basil leaves for Srimandir.”
https://youtu.be/SrcFlBdn8zw
The incident took place at Gopinathpur village under Kuakhia police station when the district collector Ranjan Kumar Das and other officers were overseeing the implementation of the lockdown guidelines and mandatory wearing of masks by people.
"When the BDO and the tehsildar were checking people on the streets, three unmasked men in a motorbike did not stop and fled to Gopinathpur village. When the two officers chased them to the village, the trio allegedly led a mob to attack the officers and held them captive, said Das.
Later, policemen reached the spot and rescued the officers, he said.
Read: COVID19: 42 Tablighi Jamaat Returnees In Odisha Volunteer For Coronavirus Test
It was ascertained during interrogation that one of them was Nizamuddin returnee. The Nizamuddin returnee along with his two associates was detained and kept in quarantine. His contact tracing will be done after the test of his swab sample, Das added.
As many as eight persons have been arrested so far in connection with the alleged attack on the government officials. Besides, Section 144 has been imposed in the village to avoid any untoward incident, said sources.
Many of those who had attended the Tablighi Jamaat event last month in the national capital were later tested positive for COVID-19 and several of them died.
Forty-two people of the state who had attended the Nizamuddin event voluntarily came forward for coronavirus test following an appeal by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, but the person detained on Saturday was not one of them, an official said.
Jajpur SP Charan Singh Meena conducted a flag march in the village as tension prevailed there after the incident.
Earlier, one Nizamuddin returnee from Jajpur district had tested positive for coronavirus infection. He, however, has recovered.
On the other hand, one more person from Balasore tested positive for coronavirus in Odisha on Saturday taking the total number of cases in the State to 61. Balasore district administration has declared three wards as ‘containment zones’ after detection of the first COVID-19 positive case.
As per official sources, ward no 29 has been sealed while partial restrictions imposed in ward no 18 and 28. All the nine entry and exit routes in these wards have been completely sealed and the administration has decided to collect samples from nearly 500 families in these wards.
https://youtu.be/54hDwFTEBJQ
(With PTI Inputs)
Also Read: Odisha CM Announces Rs 100-Crore Package For Urban Poor Families
"Those who want to return to Odisha must register before they return. Relatives and friends can register with the gram panchayats concerned. Returnees will stay for free in quarantine facilities for 14 days and then also given Rs 2,000 each as incentive," said the Chief Minister in a video message.
Odia people stranded in other states & wanting to return to #Odisha will have to mandatorily register their names with help of their family/friends at panchayat level. They will have to spend 14-day quarantine & govt will give Rs 2000 as incentive to them: CM Naveen #Covid_19 pic.twitter.com/ojpdWyTY4p
— OTV (@otvnews) April 19, 2020
To implement this effectively and with humane touch, Odisha is delegating powers of District Collectors to sarpanches in their respective jurisdictions, he added.
Also Read: Coronavirus Statistics Going Down In Odisha: CM Naveen
Every gram panchayat will have a registration facility, where relatives of the persons who wish to return can register on their behalf.
"Extraordinary situations call for extraordinary solutions. Empowering panchayats and urban local bodies will facilitate smooth movement, and track and monitor the returnees, and strengthen our fight against COVID-19," said Patnaik.
Sarpanchs granted power of Collector to properly act as empowered officials to ensure mandatory registration of Odia people of his/her area presently outside Odisha but wanting to return back. They should see strict compliance of quarantine SOPs by returnees: CM Naveen#COVID19 pic.twitter.com/9IiyyciieB
— OTV (@otvnews) April 19, 2020
"In my view every life is precious and has to be protected in a dignified manner. The involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions will go a long way in helping," he added.
When the lockdown restrictions are lifted, Odisha in coordination with the host states and government of India, will facilitate the return of all those who want to return home, said the Chief Minister.
Plight of lakhs of Odia people, be it pilgrims, students or migrants who are currently stranded in other States amid #lockdown2 is painful despite help by respective State govts. After lifting of restrictions, we will begin efforts to bring them back: CM Naveen Patnaik#COVID19 pic.twitter.com/stzRndyRab
— OTV (@otvnews) April 19, 2020
While about one lakh persons from other states are stranded in Odisha, there are lakhs of people from Odisha, including a large number of workers, are stranded in other states.
Read More: Coronavirus Lockdown: Naveen Seeks Inter-State Cooperation For Stranded Citizens
"In spite of the best efforts of our state and the host states life is not normal for them and it pains me," he said.
(With IANS inputs)
https://youtu.be/SqbX6vaAnLM
The case details show, among the six new cases reported, five are from Jajpur district and one belongs to Sundergarh.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1252197752441888769
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1252183224975065088
Earlier today, the State Health Department reported the detection of seven new cases in the State. The sub-details show five belong to Bhadrak and two to Balasore district.
"7 new Positive Cases of #Covid19 found in #Odisha. 5 new Positive Cases From Bhadrak. 2 new Positive Cases From Balasore. Total no. of cases detected: 68. Contact tracing and follow up action is being done," tweeted the Information and Public Relations Department.
The case status released by State Health Department shows a two-year-old girl child in Balasore tested positive.
Read: COVID-19 Tentacles Reach Balasore, Odisha Begins Rapid Antibody Testing In Capital City Bhubaneswar
“The COVID positive girl child in Balasore is a resident of Nilagiri block under Berhampur police limits of the district.” Harishchandra Jena, Deputy Collector, informed and further added that her sample was collected on 16 April, and the report was received on 20 April. Family members of the patient are sent to quarantine centre.
Post this new development, Bhadrak district administration has notified containment zone in five Gram Panchayats and restrictions were imposed in Basudevpur and Bhandaripokhari blocks- where cases were reported from.
Detection of new cases today in Bhadrak take the total COVID cases in the district to eight. In Balasore, the total number rose to three.
As on Monday, the number of active cases in Odisha stands at 49. While 24 patients were cured and discharged, one person died of the disease. Regarding the testing of samples, Odisha tested 10,641 samples till Sunday. A total of 10,573 have tested negative.
Also Read: Nizamuddin Returnee Along With Associates Attacks Govt Officials; Hold Them Captive In Odisha
Meanwhile, the Odisha government asked all people with travel history to West Bengal in the past 28 days to inform the local authorities and quarantine themselves at home.
The Health Department asked the West Bengal returnees to inform the local Sarpanch, Block Development Officer/Tahasildar and isolate themselves at home.
The decision has come after 10 people of the Bhadrak and Jajpur districts with recent travel history to West Bengal tested COVID-19 positive.
1/3rd #COVID19 cases in #Odisha have West Bengal travel history; mandatory quarantine for all the returnees from the neighbouring State: Odisha government spokesperson on #Coronavirus, Subroto Bagchi #OdishaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/7v1XbMipLZ
— OTV (@otvnews) April 20, 2020
People will need to send a 'Hi' on WhatsApp number 9337929000 to get the latest information on the coronavirus outbreak and the state government's containment measures.
"Govt has launched its #COVID19 #WhatsApp Helpdesk for disseminating information on various measures taken by State Govt to contain the pandemic. It can be activated by sending 'Hi' on 9337929000 or clicking on: http://bit.ly/OGCovidWhatsApp," Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said in a tweet.
Glad to launch Odisha Govt’s #WhatsApp Info Desk - 9337929000. Appeal everyone to say “Hi” or click https://t.co/cHuShnv3lh to get the latest info on Odisha Govt’s #COVID19 containment measures at your fingertip to keep you & your family safe.#OdishaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/8rIY851pcU
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) April 22, 2020
The government has also launched a mobile application, the Odisha COVID Dashboard, which can be downloaded from Play Store and App Store.
Also Read: Naveen Patnaik Administers Oath To 6798 Sarpanchs To Keep Their Areas Free From COVID-19
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik thanked Deloitte Global CEO Punit Renjen and another firm, DiagnosticRobo 1 for developing the application and providing technical support to it.
Thank @Deloitte, @salesforce & @Facebook for providing the cutting-edge technology for the development of the innovative platforms and partnering with #Odisha to strengthen its fight against #COVID19. #OdishaFightsCorona
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) April 22, 2020
He also thanked Facebook for partnering with the state government in its fight against Covid-19.
https://youtu.be/qvq9Tod5eTo
(With IANS inputs)
As per the data shared by Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department, highest seven recovered patients are from Bhadrak, three each from Bhubaneswar and Balasore and while one COVID-19 patient of Kendrapara recovered today.
So far, Odisha has reported 149 COVID-19 positive cases, with 93 active ones. With the recovery of 14 patients, the total recoveries in the State stand at 55.
Good News: Active #COVID-19 cases in #Odisha down to 92 as 14 more patients have been cured. Total recoveries in State now at 55. As per H&FW dept, there are no active cases in Kendrapara.
Details Here: https://t.co/sxsf1Tfw5z#Covid_19india #coronavirus #OdishaFightsCorona pic.twitter.com/rOoLLuIx4s
— OTV (@otvnews) May 1, 2020
As many as 15 out of 30 Odisha districts are now in the grip of COVID-19, with highest 47 cases being reported from Khurda district, followed by 39 in Jajpur, Balasore (20), Bhadrak (19) and Sundergarh (10). Two cases each have been reported from Kalahandi, Bolangir and Kendrapara while districts of Cuttack, Puri, Keonjhar, Deogarh, Dhenkanal and Koraput have reported one case each.
With the latest recoveries, five COVID districts in Odisha- Cuttack, Puri, Kendrapara, Kalahandi and Dhenkanal have ‘zero’ active cases which has come as a major respite for the residents of these districts ahead of the end of lockdown on May 3.
Jajpur district has emerged as a new trouble area for Odisha, reporting four more cases on Friday. Jajpur has the highest 39 COVID-19 active cases in Odisha followed by 17 in Balasore and 16 in Khurda.
Earlier yesterday, 20 COVID-19 positive cases were reported with highest of 17 positive cases coming from Jajpur district alone followed by Balasore with three cases.
Seven more people, including two with a travel history to Tamil Nadu, tested positive for COVID-19 in the State today on Friday. Of the fresh cases, four were reported from Jajpur district, two from Bolangir and one from Balasore.
Bolangir district in the western part of state has reported the Coronavirus infection for the first time and the two patients, aged between 18 and 22 year, had a travel history to Tamil Nadu, a senior official said.
One person with a travel history to Kolkata tested positive for coronavirus in Balasore district.
Of the total 149 COVID-19 cases, Bhubaneswar tops the list with 47, followed by 40 in Jajpur, Balasore (20), Bhadrak (19), Sundergarh (10), Kendrapara, Kalahandi and Bolangir districts two each and Cuttack, Puri, Dhenkanal, Jharsuguda, Deogarh, Keonjhar and Koraput districts detecting one case each.
Now, 15 of Odisha's 30 districts are affected with coronavius.
As more than 90 per cent of cases in Balasore, Jajpur and Bhadrak districts have been linked to West Bengal, the health department appealed to people to not hide their travel history.
Those who have returned from West Bengal recently must come forward for COVID-19 testing, it said.
"They may seem healthy but they could be infected and spread infection," the department said, adding that such people are advised to contact local BDOs, tehsildars, sarpanchs and remain in isolation at home.
The department said COVID-19 testing is free.
A total of 2,437 samples were tested for COVID-19 on Thursday. Altogether 34,133 samples have been tested in the state since the outbreak of the disease.
The MHA in its order dated May 1 has notified that 'all non-essential activities shall remain strictly prohibited between 7 PM and 7 AM. Local authorities shall issue orders under appropriate provisions of law, such as prohibitory orders (curfew) under Section 144 of CrPC, for this purpose and ensure strict compliance.'
Odisha government has asked all Collector and District Magistrate/ Commissioner of Police/ Municipal Commissioner to issue the prohibition as per the MHA guidelines in order to prevent Covid-19 cases from exploding due to rising public activities for the first time after enforcement of the nationwide lockdown.
In a major step to curb the rising cases of Coronavirus under control, Twin City Police Commissioner Sudhanshu Sarangi today took to Twitter to mention that restrictions will be imposed on public movement from 7 PM to 7 AM in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack till May 17. Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a letter mentioning the same.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1257298500892741636
Though the Commissioner of Police, Bhubaneswar- Cuttack, did not impose prohibitory order under section 144 of CrPC, he said, “As per lockdown condition effective from today, in all zones and across India, movement out of the house is not permitted from 7 PM to 7 AM except for essential purposes. All are requested to stay home during this time. All emergency workers and goods are exempt from this restriction.”
All are requested to stay home during this time. All emergency workers and goods movement are exempted from this,” the Commissionerate of Police said in its twitter handle.
The police personnel in the state capital and also in Cuttack, a green zone, used the public address system to announce about the new restriction imposed from 7 pm to 7 am.
Relaxation in 3.0 #lockdown should not be granted as a license to prevent you from dangerous #CoronaVirus unless to maintain #SocialDistancing of 6 fts from each other equipped with PPE in our day to day social life. we appeal you all pls do this. ??? https://t.co/t9IlMSNo23
— DCP CUTTACK (@DCP_CUTTACK) May 4, 2020
Meanwhile, in a notification, Jagatsinghpur district collector S K Mohapatra said: "..there are sufficient grounds for proceeding under section 144 CrPC and that immediate prevention of the spread of COVID-19 is desirable and the situation, if not checked immediately, may lead to an undesirable consequence.
"Hence I do herby issue prohibitory orders (curfew) u/s 144 CrPC restricting the movement of individuals, for all non-essential activities between 7 pm to 7 am throughout the district of Jagatsinghpur."
He, however, said that the restriction will not restrict activities in industrial activities. Jagatsinghpur district continues to remain as a green zone and has so far not reported any COVID-19 case.
A report from Dhenkanal and Balasore district also informed that the district administration there also imposed restriction on the movement of people from 7 pm to 7 am.
Similarly, the District Collector of Koraput also issued a letter prohibiting movement of individuals for all non-essential activities from 7 pm to 7 am.
The district administration of Rayagada too restricted public movement in the district for all non-essential items from 7 pm to 7 am.
Keeping in view of the increasing COVID19 positive cases in Bhadrak district, the Collector had issued a partial prohibitory order on the movement of public for all non-essential items in the district from 7 pm to 7 am till 17 May 2020.
(With Agency Inputs)
Ganjam has now begun to feel the heat of COVID outbreak following a huge influx of returnees from other States. According to H&FW Department, as many as 17 cases were reported from the district today. With this, the total positive cases in the district have reached 21.
Among the 17 cases tested positive with the virus, 16 are male while one is female. The identified female is 20-year-old and the males detected with the virus are in 18-50 age bar.
As reported by the State Information and Public Relations (I&PR) department, all the positive cases reported from Ganjam are Surat returnees who are currently in quarantine.
On the other hand, Mayurbhanj witnessed its maiden three Coronavirus cases today. With the detection of fresh cases, COVID-19 has now extended its reach to 18 districts across the State. All the positive cases reported from Mayurbhanj are male and are Surat returnees, aged 21, 36 and 44 respectively.
Of the total cases in the State, Jajpur district tops the list with 55 cases, followed by Khurda at 47, Balasore at 25, Bhadrak at 21 and Sundergarh at 12. Till date, Jagatsinghpur has reported four cases while Kendrapara has registered three cases. Bolangir, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, Cuttack and Kalahandi districts have reported two cases each. Koraput, Deogarh, Dhenkanal and Puri have reported one case each.
While 61 people have so far recovered from the disease, two people have succumbed to the virus. Currently, the active cases in the State stand at 142. In the last 24 hours, a total number of 3060 RT-PCR tests were done, the Health and Family Welfare Department reported.
Following the highest one-day spike in the State, Special Relief Commissioner, Pradeep Kumar Jena has asked all collectors and municipal commissioners to ensure spot registration of non-enrolled returnees in temporary medical camps immediately after their arrival from other States.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1258235401061437441
In a letter to all district collectors and municipal commissioners, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Jena has instructed the officials to check the registration status of each returnee on the State COVID portal and ensure spot-registration if not pre-registered. Further, Jena has instructed to check the registration status of the returnees already under quarantine and register them on the web portal if not done.
The GPNO/WNO will further verify after the returnees complete their quarantine period, the letter by the SRC stated.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1258235401061437441
Following allegations of lapses by bus drivers in boarding and disembarking people returning to Odisha during their journey to their destination districts, the Special Relief Commissioner in another letter has asked the authorities to make sure that buses ferrying the returnees from other States do not board/alight any passenger enroute from the border checkpoints to the destination district(s).
Jena in his letter has clarified that strict action will be taken against the bus driver in case of any violation and will be detained for further investigation. He has further instructed to ensure that the buses should be sent in a convoy with police escort.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1258244835905081345
To avoid congestion at Border Check Points (BCP) for registration of returnees who have not pre-registered, the SRC has also issued revised SOPs. In his letter, to the Transport Commissioner, all Collectors, Municipal Commissioners, Twin City Commissioner of Police and all Superintendents of Police, Jena has mentioned that the returnees to Odisha travelling in buses who have not pre-registered are causing congestion at the BCPs for which registration of individual returnees at the BCP is not insisted. However, vehicle registration with details of the driver (name, driving license number) is essential.
As per the revised operating procedures, the government will issue entry pass for the vehicles in a prescribed format and a duplicate copy of the pass shall be affixed on the windscreen of the vehicle while the second copy shall be handed over to the driver with instructions to report at the reception centre of the destination district.
"All passengers returning from other states shall be stamped on their right inner forearm. The reception at the destination district will verify the number of people arriving at the destination and the details in the second copy of the vehicle entry pass. In case of any discrepancy in the total number of passengers, the vehicle along with the driver shall be detained for further investigation and strict action shall be enforced as per law," the SRC letter mentioned.
https://twitter.com/otvnews/status/1258246659345133574
After a meeting with servitors and Biswakarmas, Kumar today informed that a proposal has been given to all the Biswakarmas to stay at Bhakta Niwas during the construction work for which all arrangements will be made by the administration.
"We have proposed to make staying arrangements for all the carpenters engaged in the chariot construction work in Puri. There are nearly 150 rooms in two Bhakta Niwas where the servitors will stay if they agree. This will not only ensure safety of their family members, but for all the residents of Puri," said Kumar.
The SJTA Chief Administrator also informed that all the Biswakarmas will be brought to 'Rath-Khala' in buses and an area of 200 feet will be allocated for the construction work so that social distancing is maintained.
Speaking on the development, Puri district collector Balwant Singh said, "Everybody should come forward and make sure that Puri continues remain green zone."
Earlier on Thursday, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) gave its approval to commence the construction of chariots of Lord Balabhadra, Mahaprabhu Jagannath and Devi Subhadra making it clear that the construction activity should be carried out as per COVID-19 lockdown guidelines.
#Odisha gets MHA nod for chariot construction for #RathYatra!
Ratha construction allowed to be undertaken in Ratha-khala situated on both sides of grand road in front of temple office & Sri Nahar; No religious congregation allowed; lockdown guidelines to be followed: MHA pic.twitter.com/LzAdnHvUuP
— OTV (@otvnews) May 7, 2020
The Home Ministry also clarified that the decision regarding holding of Rath Yatra is to be taken by the State Government keeping in view the conditions prevailing during the festival.
In a letter to Odisha Chief Secretary, the MHA said that Rath construction is allowed in the Rath-khala, which is situated on both sides of the Grand Road (Bada Danda) in front of the Srimandir Temple Office and Sri Nahar (Palace).
However, the temple management has been asked to ensure that no religious congregation takes place in the Ratha-khala. This apart, complete segregation of the Rath-khala should be ensured, the letter mentioned.
Briefing mediapersons, Bagchi said internal migration flow is a nationwide phenomenon and there are nearly 20 crore internal migrants in India. While 12.7 lakh Odias are working in other states, nearly 8.60 lakh people have come to Odisha for employment. Most of the migrant population within the country are engaged in the unorganised sector, he said.
The COVID-19 spokesperson further said, "People can't stay outside for an indefinite period. All of them have a legal right to return home. Before situation worsens in June and infection rate goes very high, migrants should return back to their homes."
From a legal standpoint, migrants have their legal right to return home and they cannot be detained indefinitely and it is a matter of personal freedom: #Odisha govt spokesperson pic.twitter.com/TMBiaaiio7
— OTV (@otvnews) May 9, 2020
Meanwhile, as many as five different trains carrying migrants from outside states are scheduled to arrive in Odisha. While 3 trains carrying stranded Odias will be arriving from Gujarat, one each will arrive from Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.
As per East Coast Railway sources, four of the five trains will reach Odisha by tomorrow while the fifth one will reach the destination on Monday.
It may be noted that Odisha government launched Subha Yatra initiative to bring back Odia people stranded in other States of India amid lockdown in special Shramik trains.
Meanwhile, the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in Odisha has increased to 294 with Ganjam district recording highest 89 cases.
Senior Congress leader and MLA Suresh Routray threatened to launch a massive protest if any train carrying migrants from other states de-board in Khurda in coming days.
Referring to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Rout said, "Henceforth if any train de-boards migrants in Khurda Road junction as per the permission of the State government, we will shut down the railway signal and stage dharna. Why would we die for them."
We will stage protest & even resort to dharna if migrants are allowed to deboard trains at #Khurda Road Railway Station, says Congress MLA Sura Routray #Odisha pic.twitter.com/zRFLGkc4WY
— OTV (@otvnews) May 10, 2020
Similarly, Union Minister Jual Oram also attributed the rise in the coronavirus infections in the State to managerial defect of the government.
"Those entered Odisha during lockdown phase one and phase two should not have been allowed home quarantine. Had the government tightened the measures at that time, the government would have found better outcome now," the union minister said.
On the other hand, the State government said that the stranded Odias will be brought back to the State before the coronavirus outbreak becomes explosive.
According to official data, Odisha witnessed an explosive rise in the number of coronavirus cases from 170 on May 4 to 377 on May 10 after migrant workers started returning to the State. As many as 83 cases have been detected today.
#Odisha has witnessed a total of 83 Covid cases in last 24 hours. After Angul reports its first 15 cases & Boudh sees 3 maiden cases today, nCoV spreads its tentacles to 21 districts of the State. Puri reports novel-Coronavirus cases after a gap of nearly 5 weeks#COVID19 pic.twitter.com/mxTQMTU16Z
— OTV (@otvnews) May 10, 2020
With Angul reporting its first 15 cases & Boudh witnessing 3 maiden cases today, nCoV has now spread its tentacles to 21 districts of the State. Puri too reported novel-Coronavirus cases after a gap of nearly 5 weeks.
Of the total Covid-19 cases, Ganjam tops the chart with 125 cases followed by Jajpur (60), Khurda (50), Balasore (42), Bhadrak (31), Angul (15) and Sundergarh (13). The total active cases in the State now stand at 306 with 68 recoveries and three deaths.
https://youtu.be/kkiEhkAxG_M
The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reportedly denied permission to conduct the festival this year in view of ongoing coronavirus lockdown.
According to sources, the four nijogs (servitor bodies) of Lingaraj temple held a meeting with the deputy commissioner of BMC, Abanikanta Patnaik today. However, the civic authorities have reportedly refused to give permission to organise the festival at this juncture.
Meanwhile, resentment is brewing among the servitors over the issue who have been pursuing the matter with strong conviction that the age old tradition of the Lord should be preserved at all costs.
Following the latest development, the servitors have decided to meet the BMC authorities and Twin City Police Commissioner in this regard.
Secretary of Badu Nijog, Kamalakanta Badu said, “ We held discussion as to how the age-old tradition of Lord Lingaraj can be preserved. Discussion was held as to how the rituals can be conducted with involvement of lesser number of people. We have decided to meet the BMC commissioner for further discussion. If needed, we will hold discussion with police commissioner to ensure that the tradition of marriage of Lord Lingaraj can been performed.”
Speaking about the meeting, BMC deputy commissioner Abanikanta Patnaik said, “A concrete decision on the festival can only be taken after a discussion with the servitors, BMC and police authorities. If granted permission, Lord Lingaraj will be taken out in palanquin. There will not be any public gathering and only a few servitors will take out the procession and solemnise the marriage of the Lord."
(Edited by Suryakant Jena)
https://youtu.be/3lrgEDNCL-0
While Ganjam district reported the bulk of 41 recoveries, 15 Covid patients recovered from the disease in Balasore. Jajpur, Mayurbhanj and Bhadrak districts have reported 1 recovered case each while Sundergarh reported 2 recoveries.
Another 62 #Covid19 patients have recovered and are being discharged.
41 are from Ganjam,
15 from Balasore,
2 from Rourkela and
1 each from Bhadrak, Mayurbhanj, Jajpur and Maharashtra (other State patient in our hospital).— H & FW Dept Odisha (@HFWOdisha) May 23, 2020
With the highest tally of SARS-nCoV in the State, Ganjam also now has a significant high number of recovered cases with 203 patients of its total 341 positives having recuperated from the disease.
Earlier in the day, the State reported 80 fresh Covid cases taking the total positives tally to 1269. Odisha has so far witnessed 7 deaths while active cases now stand at 765.
Jajpur is the second most Covid burden district of the State with 239 cases followed by 128 in Balasore, 98 in Bhadrak and 74 in Khurda.
With detection of new cases - 1 in Nabarangpur and 4 cases in Gajapati, Covid tentacles have now spread to a total of 26 districts in the State.
Out of the new COVID-19 patients, a total of 71 persons detected positive for the virus are in quarantine centres, two in home-quarantine and seven are local cases, informed the Health Department.
According to information shared by the State H&FW department, a gender-wise break of cases shows that around 87.7 % of them are male meaning 1113 of the total 1269 positives. The rest 156 patients are females.
A total of 118446 samples have been tested for Covid in the State so far with 5000 RT-PCR tests in the last 24 hours itself.
Already reeling under the crisis of losing their livelihood due to the lockdown, absence of basic facilities in the temporary medical camps have now made their lives more miserable as they continue to spend their days of quarantine period as per Covid protocols.
Some quarantinees lodged at a temporary medical camp in Binayakpur village under Basudevpur block of Bhadrak district have opened up about their ordeal they are currently going through with lack of essential facilities at the quarantine centre. The plight of the migrants came to fore after a video showing them ruing absence of the facilities was found doing rounds on social media.
As per reports, 9 migrants including two children had returned from Maharashtra on May 19 and were kept at the quarantine centre with all assurances of necessary provision of basic facilities and healthcare. However, the migrants alleged that there are only five beds in the quarantine centre. Apart from the lack of electricity at the camp, they also alleged that absence of drinking water facilities has been giving them a tough time.
“We are suffering a lot in the quarantine centre. Neither there is any electricity nor clean drinking water facility here. Besides, the mosquitoes have made our lives miserable,” alleged an inmate of the quarantine centre.
Asked about the situation, nodal officer of the quarantine camp accepted about the shortage of beds in the centre.
“There are five beds in the quarantine centre. As the migrants reached Binayakpur village on the evening of May 19, we could not arrange the rest of beds due to cyclone Amphan,” said Nodal Officer, Kanhu Rana.
Similar is the situation of the inmates at a quarantine centre in Semelmunda village under Muribahal block of Bolangir district. The migrants lodged at the camp refused to have breakfast alleging poor food quality.
Not only these, but social media platforms are also replete with many such incidents pointing at gross mismanagement at TMCs set up by the government for care of the migrants.
One of the most shocking scenes was however reported from Kendrapara district where some women migrants lodged at an ashram school alleged that they are feeling unsafe as they are forced to share common bathroom. Another centre in the district also reportedly lodged returnees which had only one woman and rest male inmates.
“There is no electricity and sufficient beds at the quarantine centre. The toilets are even not clean. We have been trying to contact the concerned authorities through phone but have been unable to reach them yet," said an inmate of the quarantine centre.
Meanwhile, lack of basic facilities triggered unrest in Dharakote area of Ganjam district when around 54 inmates of K Ramchandrapur quarantine centre in the block launched a protest and blocked Aska-Sorada road by placing empty buckets. The migrants alleged that the camp does not have any electricity connection and drinking water supply.
Edited By: Suryakant Jena
Read More --
Odisha Fights Corona: Migrants Defy Norms As Govt Looks The Other Way
Hunger Crisis A Double Whammy For Migrants During COVID-19 Lockdown
Urging people to take maximum precaution during this period, he said adherence to quarantine guideline, Covid-19 protocol and self-restraint are the only means to fight this infection.
To control the spread, a two-day weekend shutdown started in 11 of the 30 districts with high Covid-19 cases. The shutdown on Saturdays and Sundays will continue in these districts till the end of the month.
Only essential services are allowed in the 11 districts - Ganjam, Puri, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Khurda, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore and Bolangir.
Meanwhile, the state government warned of action against the people returning from abroad for not responding to calls from 104 or the state call centre.
"All foreign returnees should cooperate and take calls on their registered numbers from 104/state call centre. Keeping phones in switched off mode or non-acknowledgement of calls will be viewed as jumping of home quarantine and liable to be prosecuted as per penal provisions," said the health department.
As many as 112 Covid-19 patients in Odisha have recovered from the disease on Saturday, bringing the total recoveries in the State to 1716.
Earlier in the day, Odisha witnessed the highest single-day spike of coronavirus with detection of 173 new cases, taking the total tally to in the State to 2781. Of the total positives, a highest 64 COVID-19 cases have been reported from Ganjam district, followed by 19 from Jajpur and 13 each from Cuttack and Mayurbhanj districts.
(With Agency Inputs)
More Related Stories:
Covid-19: 112 Patients Cured, Total Recoveries Rise To 1716 In Odisha
173 New COVID-19 Cases Reported In 24 Hours, Odisha’s Tally Reaches 2781
As per the data shared by the State information and public relations department, Kandhamal district reported the highest number of 48 cases. Cuttack & Bhadrak followed next with 19 cases each. Balasore and Ganjam closely followed suit with eight cases each.
146 fresh cases of #COVID19 detected in #Odisha in last 24 hours. Total number of confirmed cases now at 4055
--State I&PR Dept pic.twitter.com/2zBKKMBcq4
— OTV (@otvnews) June 15, 2020
Besides, 9 COVID warriors, Odisha fire fighters who had returned from West Bengal last week from Cyclone Amphan duty also tested positive on Monday.
Raygada: 5
Jagatsinghpur: 4
Balasore : 8
Dhenkanal: 1
Angul: 6
Ganjam:8
Sonepur:2
Bhadrak:19
Sambalpur: 1
Sundergarh: 4
Fire personnel returned from Amphan duty in West Bengal: 9 pic.twitter.com/PwevZoEcgz— OTV (@otvnews) June 15, 2020
Of the total 146 positive cases, 128 were reported from various quarantine centres in the State while 18 are local cases, informed the I&PR Department.
The current count of active cases in Odisha stands at 1187. The recoveries in Odisha jumped to 2708 on Sunday after 114 more patients recuperated from COVID19.
Notably, Odisha crossed 2 lakh mark in testing samples on Sunday. The cumulative RT-PCR tests in the State stands at 202513.
Earlier, as many as 186 new COVID-19 cases had been reported from Odisha on Sunday and one 50-year-old man had also succumbed to the disease taking the death toll in the State to 11.
Also Read: COVID-19 Cases In India: 11502 New Cases, 325 Deaths In Last 24 Hours
Also Read: Banaste Dakila Gaja: COVID-19 Dampens Pahili Raja Celebrations In Odisha
(Edited By Ramakanta Biswas)
The members, staff and journalists, among others, will be allowed to enter the building only if they test negative for COVID-19, he said.
Twelve ordinances already approved by the state Cabinet will be tabled during the session for discussion, Patro said.
The session is scheduled to end on October 7, he said, adding that the Assembly will meet for four hours every day.
The House will meet from 10.30 am to 1 pm in the first half and then again from 3 pm to 4.30 pm.
The Assembly will transact business on Sunday as well but there will be not sitting on October 2, he said.
Patro said sitting arrangements for members have already been made keeping in view the social distancing norm.
MLAs will be seated in the Assembly hall, visitors' gallery and the Speaker's Gallery.
Video conferencing facility from district headquarters is available for elderly MLAs who give prior information to the Assembly secretariat, he said.
The House will be adjourned for an hour after obituary references to former President Pranab Mukherjee and former MLAs Bishnu Charan Das and Madan Mohan Dutta and some police personnel on September 29.
None other than the MLAs will get lobby passes, the speaker said.
COVID-19 tests for members, officials and journalists will start on Saturday.
The speaker also said that no papers or reports are to be distributed among members in the House except those of urgent nature such as amendments to Bills and replies of ministers.
"The papers will be distributed by Daks to the members' quarters," the speaker said.
While the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation will daily sanitise the Assembly Hall and premises, the Health Department will provide COVID preventive kit to the members, journalists and officials
The opposition Congress, however, condemned the decision to suspend the Question Hour.
"The decision of scraping Question Hour is illegal and unconstitutional," said Congress Legislature Party leader Narasingha Mishra.
Read More: Odisha Assembly To Follow Parliament Covid-19 Guidelines For Monsoon Session