Is a 21-Day Lockdown Really Sufficient for Controlling India’s COVID-19 Cases?

The recent surge in cases of Covid-19 in India has been alarming. While the current 21-day lockdown is in place, many are questioning its efficacy in controlling the infection rate. This article explores the necessity of extending the lockdown and outlines the measures required to ensure public safety.

Current Scenario and the Need for a Longer Lockdown

The increase in Covid-19 cases highlights the need for a more stringent approach. The current lockdown period is deemed insufficient for effectively managing the spread of the virus. The government must reconsider extending the duration of the lockdown to safeguard public health.

Ensuring Public Safety During Lockdown

The following measures are essential to ensure the safety and health of the public during the extended lockdown period:

Stricter Border Controls and Disinfection

Proper border controls and strict monitoring of borders between villages, towns, and cities are necessary. Regular disinfection of all outskirt and border areas must be carried out. Newcomers to these areas should be thoroughly checked.

PUBLIC UTILITIES AND TRANSPORT CLEANLINESS

All public utilities and transport services must be cleansed repeatedly. Face masks and gloves should be made compulsory for all commuters and office workers. For the next two months, gentlemen should cover their entire body, including wearing full pants, full-sleeved shirts, and proper footwear. It is advised that individuals remove and wash their clothes, and take a hot water bath immediately after returning home.

Localization of Markets and Functions

Instead of allowing people to go to markets, groceries and fresh vegetables should be delivered on demand. The administration is responsible for controlling the rates. Marriages and functions should be postponed for the next few months, except for emotional and humanitarian reasons. Diverse places of worship should be open for morning and evening prayers only.

Restructured Transportation and Limited Functionality

Transportation should be minimal. Buses should operate from makeshift bus stands, and existing bus stands should be used as second markets. Train and flight bookings should be strictly limited. Passengers should be checked before entering airports and at boarding points. Planes should be disinfected upon landing at each location.

Availability of Essential Services and Water Supply

Continuous water supply and the availability of sanitizers and soaps should be ensured in public convenience places such as bus stands, railway stations, and airports. Educational institutions and sports grounds can be used for public utilities to avoid overcrowding in enclosed malls. Civil services organizations, NCC, NSS, NGOs, and ESM should be utilized. Standby quarantine wards, as managed by the government, should be readily available in close proximity.

Healthcare Services and Disaster Management

Medical services and healthcare workers must be provided with adequate facilities to perform their duties. A disaster management plan should be invoked, with the exception of emergency services, considering the aforementioned challenges.

Individual Responsibility

Every individual must take responsibility not only for their own health but also to prevent the unknowing spread of the virus. Adhering to the guidelines and protocols will be crucial in preventing the further spread of Covid-19.

By implementing these measures and extending the lockdown period, India can better control the Covid-19 outbreak and protect the public.