Slew of measures initiated by the State government to check the spread of coronavirus: KCR

Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao’s media briefing on the slew of measures initiated by the State government to check the spread of coronavirus had a touch of ‘no nonsense’ approach even as he reassured people that Telangana was not only among the least affected but was well-prepared to tackle any situation.

The Chief Minister, even before he listed out the measures that were being put in place, spoke at length about the various advantages that the State enjoyed in containing the spread of Covid-19, like Telangana not having any sea-port and having only one international airport, making screening of potential virus carriers that much easier.

But when it came to implementation of the measures, including closure of educational institutions, not permitting mass gatherings, meetings, sporting events and pulling down shutters on cinema halls, bars, pubs and even private clubs, Chandrashekhar Rao let it be known that the government will not brook any violations. He warned, more than once, that violation would attract severe action from the government, even cancellation of permits.

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State government took a balanced and practical approach while dealing with different sections of society, adopting a two-pronged approach. While imposing a two-week closure on educational institutions and restricting attendance in marriages to 200 till March 31 for weddings already fixed, the government decided to close down other places of public gathering, mostly in the line of business that have mass gatherings like cinemas, amusement parks, museums, bars, pubs and clubs among others, only for a week, till March 21.

In doing so, the government sent a clear message to businesses that it would not have them shut down for long periods and would extend their closure only if the situation demanded, and after a review.

The State government’s move on restrictions and the Chief Minister’s observations on the ground situation clearly indicate that the administration does not want the public to get into a panic mode even as it put in place some hard measures to tackle any eventuality. Abundant precaution and minimum scare seemed to be the underlying message.