Curfew-like restrictions imposed in Srinagar to combat COVID-19

Meanwhile, surveillance has been started within 300 meter radius of the area in which the woman, who tested positive for Coronavirus, lives in Khanayar in downtown Srinagar.

Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Shahid Iqbal Chaudhary said the restrictions on public gatherings, assembly and movement in many areas are aimed at avoiding spread of any likely cases.

Many roads in downtown, uptown and civil lines were sealed with barbed wires while security forces were directing people to remain indoors in these areas, asserting that curfew was imposed since early this morning.

All gates of historic Jamia Masjid have been closed. A large number of security forces were deployed in the Jamia market and nearby areas to prevent anybody from entering the worship place.

The main Nallahmar road from Tarabal Nawa Kadal to Khanyar crossing has been closed for any vehicular movement. Security forces have closed the main roads in downtown and SeK with barbed wires at Nawa Kadal, Rajouri Kadal, Kawdara and Khanyar. Similar road blocks were erected by security forces at Nowhatta, Rangar stop and Gojwara.

Road connecting uptown Srinagar with civil line was blocked with barbed wire at Natipora, where ever pedestrians were also not allowed to move forward. A bus carrying Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar employees, including paramedical staff, were also not allowed to move forward at Natipora.

Meanwhile, shops and business establishments were closed in Lal Chowk, the nerve centre of Srinagar and other parts of civil lines.

Chaudhary said it's important that people who come in contact with Coronavirus positive case(s) should immediately report to nearest health facility or our 24×7 control room.

“We urge all residents who might have come in contact with the COVID-19 positive case in Srinagar to report to their nearest health facilities or contact our control room at 2457552 or 2457543 or 9419028251 or 9419028242 or 9419014723 -- this is urgent and cannot be ignored @diprjk,” Chaudhary twitted.

“Rumours and unverified information shared on social media will certainly attract strict action. Let's act like responsible citizens. Every information /advisory will be shared officially. Srinagar Coronavirus,” he added.

J&K administration spokesperson Rohit Kansal on Wednesday said first positive case was detected from Khanyar, Srinagar. “History of foreign travel. Arrived on 16/3/2020. Put in Isolation. Surveillance started in 300m area. Request all to cooperate. Also Immediately self report any symptoms,” Mr Kansal wrote on twotter.

In a series of tweets, Srinagar Mayor Junaid Azim Mattu asked people to stay indoors. “I request ALL Srinagarites to stay at their homes from tomorrow morning and venture out only when absolutely necessary. Those with ANY flu like symptoms should immediately home quarantine themselves. Report for screening/testing if symptoms worsen,” Mattu said.

“I have been informed a short while ago that Srinagar has had its first positive case for Covid 2019. It’s a congested area in the city interiors. We have to be transparent to convey the gravity of the challenge and also seek serious measures and responsible behavior,” he twitted.

“I have been repeatedly urging for maximum possible preventive measures and will continue to advocate for MAXIMUM precautions. Panicking won’t help. The best possible approach is to stay at home and follow ALL guidelines,” he said.

He said the SMC is gearing up for elevated measures and sterilization. “Our chemicals and machines have been received and stocked today. I am sure all agencies and departments are going to do their best but the battle will be won or lost by how responsibly people behave on ground,” he said.

“Expect more regulations and restrictions from tomorrow and understandably so. Let’s not rush to the hospitals when avoidable and risk the safety of others and our own selves. #SocialDistanacing and #StaySafeStayHome are two key instructions to follow. Let’s be responsible,” he added.