Social distancing goes for a toss in Itanagar and Naharlagun markets

A CORRESPONDENT

ITANAGAR: The markets of Itanagar and Naharlagun on Saturday and Sunday witnessed a scene of utter chaos soon after the government's announcement for the lockdown. Hundreds thronged to the markets and resorted to panic buying while long traffic jams were also witnessed.

The State government had on Saturday said that it would impose a "total lockdown" on the capital complex next week, amid the spurt in cases. The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting convened by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar said. The shutdown will be in force for seven days from 6 pm on Monday, he said, adding that no vehicular or pedestrian movement will be allowed unless absolutely necessary.

Urging people not to panic, he said the shutdown will provide a breather to all frontline workers, who had been toiling hard for the past three months without a break.

All frontline workers will be undergoing tests for COVID-19 next week to ensure they are safe, the Chief Secretary added.

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