Random testing to begin in Shillong, after BSF camp declared as ‘containment area’
The state government has directed the health department to go for random testing of people residing in areas adjacent to the BSF camp at Umpling, which has been declared as a containment area, to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the state’s capital.
“We have directed the health department to conduct random testing of people in Rynjah, Umpling, Nongmynsong and Mawpat which are adjacent to the BSF camp from tomorrow itself. This is to ensure there is no community spread,” Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong told reporters after a review meeting held on Friday.
He said the random testing will take place immediately after the Director of Health Services (MI) Dr Aman War convenes the consultation meetings with the village COVID-19 committees of Rynjah, Nongmynsong, Umpling and Mawpat.
Tynsong said the government has already declared the BSF camp as a containment area after many BSF jawans have been tested positive for COVID-19.
“This was done in consultation with the BSF authority after seeing the situation is very grim. Therefore, entry and exit of people will not be allowed. Protocols and SOPs are in place in case essential commodities are required in the campus,” he said adding drivers are advised to wear proper PPEs.
Asked, the deputy chief minister informed that the BSF authority has agreed not to allow anymore personnel to return to the state adding those who are already on their way, arrangements have been made as per protocols.
The order issued by the East Khasi Hills district magistrate Matsiewdor War on Thursday night stated that no person and public are allowed to move into the containment area and inhabitants within the containment area also not allowed to not move out besides all inhabitants within the containment area must strictly remain inside their home.
The order also prohibited gatherings, events, functions whatsoever of any nature and forms including social, political, religious, economic activities.
It also directed all shopping establishments of whatsoever nature to close immediately, however, supply of essential and medical requirements will be ensured through various teams formed by the district administration.
All Government and private institutions located within the boundary of the containment area to close forthwith, till further orders.
According to the order, the Block Development Officer of Mawpat, Incident Commander of Zone -V will be the Supervising Officer of the Ftr HQr BSF Campus, Umpling which is declared as a containment area.
The order also states that any violation of the order will entail prosecution under the penal provision of Disaster Management Act, 2005 and IPC.
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