No lockdown in Assam due to coronavirus spread, asserts CM Sonowal

KAKOPATHAR: Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal today announced the state government’s decision not to impose lockdown in the state in view of the surge in COVID-19.

Addressing the biennial conference of the central committee of Sonowal Kachari Jatiya Parishad here, Sonowal categorically stated: “Coronavirus is spreading alarmingly at present in the second wave of the pandemic. In this time, we will all have to cooperate and join hands to prevent its spread and save the society … Bihu is also approaching. Today, I announce on behalf of our government that there will be no lockdown. This is our government decision.”

The announcement came from the horse’s mouth at a time when there have been speculations about possible lockdown in view of the rapid spread of the dreaded virus across the nation.

ALSO READ: COVID-19 claims one more life in Assam; 22 test positive in Guwahati

“Instead of lockdown, we’ll enforce containment zones so that the infection cannot spread to a whole village from one house. In the process, we will need cooperation from all concerned. The only way to check the spread of the virus is to strict compliance with safety protocols such as hand washing, wearing mask, social distancing etc. Moreover, getting tested and cooperating to tests by health authorities are also part of the drill.

“Besides, I appeal to all eligible people to get vaccinated. There has been rumour mongering that the vaccine leads to side effects. All those are rubbish. I’ve taken the first dose myself three days ago. I haven’t felt anything wrong,” Sonowal added.

State health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has also been repeatedly saying that the lockdown was not on the cards despite the fact that the infection is spreading rapidly in most parts of the country.

ALSO READ: Sikkim CM PS Tamang Receives First Dose Of COVID-19 Vaccine

He has been advocating strict adherence to COVID-19 tests at entry points to the state such as the airports, railway stations etc.

Sarma also visited a COVID Care Centre at Kalapahar in Guwahati this evening and took stock of the facilities there.