Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Jul 14: "There are sufficient bed facilities for COVID-19 positive patients. Udupi district would be opting for border seal down and not lockdown," Udupi district commissioner G Jagadeesha said on Tuesday, July 14.

"Any person who wants to come to Udupi or move outside of the district should move before 8 pm on July 15. In the video conference held on Monday, the chief minister has given powers to the district commissioners of the respective districts to take necessary action with regard to lockdown. Taking the advice of the expert committee of our district and after discussing with the representatives we have decided to seal the district borders. The regulations are also applicable to conducting festivals and pre-planned marriage functions. The marriage functions can be conducted with only 50 people. Churches, mosques and temples are open just for public viewing. No special mass and offerings can be conducted. At a time inside a religious place not more than 20 people including religious leaders will be allowed," the commissioner said.

Speaking about the self lockdown in some parts of the district he said, "We are not opposing any self lockdown imposed by the people. They can proceed as per their wish in matters of self lockdown. Complete lockdown will be followed every Sunday. All the establishments will be closed except the health care facilities," he said.

During the 14 days border seal down essential goods carrying vehicles can move without any restrictions. People wanting to travel on special flights under 'Vande Bharat Mission' can avail special pass from the local authorities. No one is allowed to enter the district from other districts or states. People who are found arriving on trains to the district from outside will be charged for the violation, the commissioner said.

Free treatment in Dr TMA Pai hospital for COVID patients:

Over 1,100 beds have been prepared for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. In addition to this, 700 beds will be made available in various hostels, hotels and other private institutions. Dr TMA Pai hospital is fully functional with additional facilities and 140 beds are made available in this hospital. Once the occupancy fills to 70 per cent of its capacity another prioritized hospital would be made available. "We have already discussed with 21 private hospital managements during the peak of positive cases. We have restricted the walk-in-entry to Dr TMA Pai hospital. The government referred patients treated here are entirely free of cost. Anyone willing for treatment in special rooms should pay according to the rates decided by the government," the DC said.

Public transport suspended, weekly markets closed:

"To contain the community spread of COVID-19 public transport will be completely halted. All the private and KSRTC bus services will be suspended for the next 14 days. No weekly markets will be functional during this period. We have received information regarding some organizations conducting installation ceremonies, felicitation function and so on, but as per the MHA guidelines, all these are prohibited. No political, religious, or social gatherings can be conducted," Jagadeesha said.