May extend lockdown hints Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal

A Correspondent

GOALPARA: Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has hinted at extending the ongoing 21-day lockdown which is going to expire on April 14. Replying to a question from journalists during his visit to Goalpara district on Friday, he said, “It is clear that so far no medicine for this virus has been invented. We’re not left with many alternatives, except maintaining strict social distancing. So, you may guess what the government will do.”

Addressing the press Sonowal said, “The world civilization is in a critical stage now. The virus has terrified every single individual. The Prime Minister has appealed to all to observe the lockdown with dedication. Everyone should follow the lockdown staying inside their houses and maintaining cleanliness.”

He also expressed his gratitude to the people of Assam. “I am thankful to the 3.30 crore people of Barak Valley, Brahmaputra Valley, hills and plains of Assam who are following the lockdown norms with dedication. I appeal to them to continue with the same spirit of the lockdown up to April 14. In some places, for the greater interest of the society, the police was compelled to take stringent actions against those who violated the lockdown norms. Because there is no alternative to social distancing. This is a great challenge for the mankind. We can realize this by looking at the pathetic conditions of the civilized western countries. If we can save ourselves, we will be saving our society as well as the nation,” he said.

“The State government is taking every initiative to provide service to its citizen. The Health department has readied itself with upgraded standard health facilities in all the 33 districts of the State. Health Hinister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Minister of State for Health Piyush Hazarika, our doctors, nurses, cleaners, ambulance drivers, are working day and night to combat the diseases,” he added. Sonowal was accompanied by Food and Civil Supplies Minister Phani Bhusan Choudhury.

Deputy Commissioner Varnali Deka gave a presentation on the initiatives and preparedness taken by the administration against the coronavirus.

The DC handed over a cheque of Rs 10.80 lakh to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.

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