Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Nov 19: Even though restrictions all over the country on the movement of people have been eased, quarantine rules still apply for people entering Lakshadweep. The restriction has caused adverse impact on businesses of coastal Karnataka.

Various goods used to be transported to Lakshadweep from here through ships. After lockdown was imposed, the ships have stopped operating. In normal course, ships ferry goods every year between September 15 and May 15. Even passenger ships are not being allowed now. Only essential goods are transported by the government boats from Mangaluru, Kochi and Kozhikode ports with special care.

 
Ship from Mangaluru to Lakshadweep (file photo)

So far, Lakshadweep has not reported any coronavirus infections, it is said. Therefore, extreme care is being taken about visitors to the island. People going there need to possess a corona negative report. Once the ship reaches, the ship has to be anchored in water and the people have to undergo 14 days quarantine. It is said that this rule is being implemented strictly as the healthcare sector there has not fully developed.

Over 750 workers including those involved with loading and unloading and about 250 who were indirectly dependent on jobs like bringing things like stones, sand, vegetables etc up to the boats have become unemployed now. Businesses and ships which thrived on supply to Lakshadweep are suffering. Their work and business which came to a screeching halt in April, has not resumed.