- NET Web Desk
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, several mutations and variants have continued to emerge with “Omicron Variant” which is believed to incorporate of a high transmissibility rate, thereby escalating tensions among medical fraternities. In a bid to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 and mitigating it’s impending risks, the Meghalaya Government on Monday have decided to impose certain strict measures, including – night curfew, odd-even rule for vehicles and restrictions on public gatherings from January 5.
Addressing the mediapersons, the Chief Minister asserted that “We as a government feel that it is very important for citizens and the government to take precautions. Though the past one year has been very difficult for all of us, we still need to be very careful in the coming days.”
However, CM Sangma after holding a COVID-19 review meeting, shared that state government will ensure the impact of such restrictions on economic activities is bare minimum.
“There will be restrictions on movement of private vehicles. It will be different in different regions but in Shillong city and most of East Khasi Hills district, we will have an odd-even system coming up,” – he further added.
According to PTI report, under the odd-even scheme, cars can be driven only on alternate days, depending on the last digit (odd or even) of their registration number.
However, visitors prior to entering the northeastern state will have to be tested if they fail to produce a COVID-19 negative test report not lesser than 72 hours.
Appealing the people to follow COVID Appropriate Behavior (CAB), Sangma said, “We need to ensure not to let our guards down to keep COVID-19 in check.”
The chief minister said there is a huge hesitancy factor among the citizens when it comes to receiving the Covid-19 jabs.
He said Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who is also in charge of the health department, launched the vaccination drive for the 15-18 year age group in the state capital and the response is good.