Guwahati: Fearing the spread of the new coronavirus, the residents of Arunachal Pradesh's Hollongi -- 14 kilometers away from the capital Itanagar -- have self-declared a lockdown from July 18 to 31 next.
The decision to clamp curbs was taken after a series of discussions and deliberations between various committees like the Hollongi Nyvgam Youth Association, Gaonbura Panchayat Interim Committee, Hollongi Market Welfare Committee, Hollongi Maxicab Association, Hollongi Rajghar Market Joint Committee, and locals.
According to reports, the locals of Hollongi are in constant dread of the spread of the COVID-19 as a surge of cases has been reported in the Itanagar capital region, which has prompted the Government of the state to declare a complete shutdown. In a recent meeting, they discussed the threat of the spreading of the COVID-19 disease in and around Hollongi, and what measures could be adopted by the locals to stop the rampage of the virus. The members of all committees present in the meeting amicably decided to go for the 14 days total lockdown, informed community leader Likha Taji who chaired the meeting.
The Hollongi committees have also adopted a set of resolutions that they will seek to enforce during the lockdown period. During the lockdown, no public movement will be allowed from Hollongi to the Itanagar capital region/ Also, outsiders will not be allowed to enter Hollongi. Business and commercial establishments of both Assam and Arunachal side will also be kept closed during the lockdown, the locals decided.
Kara Niki, the Head Gaon Bura of Hollogi told mediapersons that it is difficult to completely seal Hollongi due to the National Highway 415 and urged the people to cooperate and respect the committee's decision. "Anyone on the road traveling by vehicle even for essential services shall not be allowed to stop at Hollogi", Niki said, adding that the resolution to go for a lockdown has been done as a means of "self-protection."
Meanwhile, youth leader Nabam Rebia informed that they have conveyed the information to all concerned including the Deputy Commissioners of Papum Pare and Capital as well as other officials.
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