Puri: The Puri District Administration is not leaving any stone unturned as the State is in a situation that is not less than any emergency. The administration has taken some tough decisions to implement the lockdown and has asked for everybody’s cooperation. In a video message issued, District Collector Balwant Singh details the situation and explains the need for such tough measures.
It was the second day of lockdown. Everybody has extended support to it more or less, for which I would like to thank all. The State Government on Monday declared total lockdown in Puri district. The lockdown imposed in the town has been extended to the entire district. Now, especially the traffic, including the private vehicles will not be allowed. The bus services will also be suspended. In fact bus services have been suspended in the entire State. It’s obvious that people have difficult times. But it’s fight for life and death. We can fight the COVID-19 with the support of all. But I want to clear one thing – if the Prime Minister and Chief Minister are appealing people to stay at home, if you disobey them, then you are putting your life in danger and also others life in danger. We will go tough from tomorrow (Tuesday) if there is any violation in it. If required we will arrest the violators.
Secondly, in Puri town, as a tourist place, some people have come here but they are unable to return. There are also people who don’t have shelter here and they don’t get food. In fact, we have shifted maximum beggars to Niladri Nilay shelter home. There might be some beggars. For the shelter-less people who sleep in the railway platform or bus stand, for them we have selected volunteers in municipality, who will start identification of them from Tuesday and their needs like food necessity and other requirements will be addressed.
Besides, the administration has made special arrangements for the senior citizens. We have a dedicated helpline number for them. They can contact on the number. The volunteers will reach them and address their problems. The Helpline Number issued by the administration is 6370-967-100 and 6370-972100.