Jamshedpureans must buckle up for a long haul against Covid-19 spread

The news of two consecutive deaths on a single Saturday in Jamshedpur due to Covid-19 related complications is unfortunate and reason enough for the city to take notice and be prepared for the long haul.

We as residents of this city must acknowledge the fact that we are in the middle of a big crisis unfolding on us. The scourge is already here and it is time we braced ourselves for battling it.

It is very unfortunate that two of our elderly citizens had to lose life due to complications. Covid-19 is unsparing for those who are struggling with weak immune system and other co-morbidities.

The world-over, the elderly population has had to bear the brunt of this deadly virus from China.

As we all are aware, frequent hand-washing, mask-wearing and social distancing are the only few tools available to cope with this pandemic. And these tools need vigil, awareness and utmost caution to prove effective.

The city administration has been doing well in making people aware of the need to comply with safety instructions. Yet the people in general tend to get into a relaxed daily life mode. And this may prove dangerous for the entire city.

In the adjoining Seraikela district, the administration had to impose certain new restrictions to prevent further spread of the disease. Shoe and garment shops have been asked to shut down.

If we do not abide by the safety instructions, the scourge may start taking bigger toll on us. And Jamshedpur city too will have to impose more restrictions.

We are not prepared for that situation. We must do everything to avoid reaching that point. Our health infrastructure is inadequate and we have too many elderly and people with co-morbidities.

The city must unite to stop the spread of this scourge. We must halt its further progress into community transmission phase. We are fast hurtling toward that stage. It is time to buckle up and do everything that we are capable of doing.