TURA: On a day when India recorded the highest jump — 3,900 cases — in the number of COVID-19 infections in a single day, there were widespread violations of restrictions in Garo Hills with members of the public throwing caution to the winds despite government urging the citizens to adhere to guidelines on safety against the deadly virus.
Also as many as 195 deaths, also record high, were reported in a span of 24 hours on Tuesday making it the biggest spike in a single day ever since the infections first began in the country.
Meghalaya government had eased some of the restrictions, which began this week, such as opening of essential stores and permitting agricultural and industrial operations, besides a limited movement of public transport.
However, apprehensive of widespread violations with the easing, respective deputy commissioners in the five districts of Garo Hills had re-imposed curfew from 6 am of May 4 up to May 9.
Shockingly, many a citizen in Tura refused to comply with the restrictions.
On Tuesday, there were widespread violations as people gathered in groups and vehicles including two-wheelers zipping through town without any permit.
There were many a complaint on the administration, particularly the police, for failing to curb the violations.
To make matters worse, the Tura Police check point outside the main police station on the road to the main market restricting movement other than those with permit failed to serve much of a purpose.
“We were not allowed to enter the market for purchase of essential items because we did not have a permit. But everywhere else people were violating norms of movement. What was the point of checking at the station? It was more of a hindrance than a solution,” several angry citizens complained.
Physical distancing was not adhered to as people flocked to vegetable vendors in large numbers.
There is concern that members of the public are either failing or refusing to follow the health guidelines meant to prevent infection from coronavirus.