Teething troubles on Day 1 of lockdown

Tribune Reporters

Chandigarh, March 25

With the total number of positive cases in Haryana at 17 and 110 test reports of suspected Covid patients awaited, the complete lockdown in the state brought some teething troubles and the day went by putting in place all systems for delivery of essentials. While most of the cities and towns wore a deserted look, it did not deter some people from venturing out for absolutely no reason. The local administration worked out delivery-at-doorstep plans while the police was forced to take action against those loitering around. The districts have been asked to clearly mark distances for people queuing up to buy essentials.

Five FIRs for violating lockdown in Gurugram

Five FIRs were registered for violation of lockdown orders in Gurugram. A heavy police force was seen deployed in urban ghettos and slums. Meanwhile, a major problem is being faced in condominiums and housing societies where residents can be seen sitting in groups in common areas.

F’bad locals can step out to buy medicines, supplies

The Faridabad administration has allowed local residents to buy grocery and medicines between 11 am and 5 pm daily and vegetables and fruits by retailers and wholesalers at the local mandi between 6 am and 11 am. The authorities have instructions to shopkeepers to draw lines in front of the sale counter to keep a distance of one metre between customers. They have been asked not to allow more than five customers at a time. The police arrested 10 against whom five FIRs were registered under Section 188 of the IPC.

Two 24x7 helplines launched in Ambala

The Ambala district administration established two helplines that would remain functional 24x7 to help the public. The helpline numbers (0171-2530400, 7496854623, 9729179275 and 8199830048) would provide help to the residents in distress. While the chemists, doctors, hospitals and shops of essential commodities remained open, commercial and industrial establishments stayed shut.

Y’nagar, Jagadhri disinfected, violators pulled up

Except for chemists and hospitals, all shops and markets of the twin cities of Yamunanagar and Jagadhri remained closed. Temples also remained closed for devotees on the first day of Navratras. Municipal Corporation staff sprayed disinfectant in several areas of the twin cities. The police also took strict action against the violators of lockdown. Haridev Kamboj, Executive Engineer, water services division, Dadupur, gave training to his employees at Tajewala to protect them from Covid.

10 vehicles impounded in Karnal, UP border sealed

The first day of the lockdown saw residents stay inside houses. Ten vehicles were impounded by the police in the city area. In rural areas, residents were seen violating lockdown orders. Several shops remained open for some time in violation of the rules. The police sealed the border with UP at Manglora and Shergarh Tapu villages.

7 FIRs registered, six arrested in Rohtak

Seven FIRs were registered, six persons arrested, 350 vehicles challaned and 44 impounded in Rohtak for violating the lockdown, Section 144 and related orders issued by the authorities concerned.

In M’garh, Rewari, officials enforce social distancing

In Mahendragarh, the district authorities did not allow people to gather at grocery shops. The police ensured a gap of at least one metre between customers by marking circles. In Rewari, four persons were booked for violating Section 144.

Home delivery in Hisar, helplines set up

The local administration has tied up with shopkeepers for home delivery of essential items and fixed prices of these items. The Commissioner, Hisar division, Vinay Singh, said a helpline was being issued for medical services (85588-93911), police (01662-237150, 88140-57100, 88140-58100) and district administration (01662-278113, 70278-30252) that would remain operational during the lockdown.

Delivery boys not to be stopped: ADGP

• The Haryana Police has set up a system to facilitate movement of essential goods and services and persons associated with their delivery during the lockdown
• Additional Director General of Police, Law and Order, Navdeep Singh Virk said three DSPs have been deployed at the integrated State COVID-19 Control Room at Panchkula to resolve problems faced by the public
• All three DSPs will be supervised by a DIG-rank officer. If people associated with essential goods and services face a problem, they could call the helpline on 8558893911
• All CPs and SPs have been directed to allow movement of essential goods and services, including delivery boys of eCommerce portals such as Amazon, Flipkart, Groffers, BigBasket and Zomato and those engaged in homecare treatment of patients during the lockdown

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.