Delhi lockdown day-1: All roads largely empty, except those taken by migrants
New Delhi, April 20: Roads in Delhi remained largely empty on Tuesday with people staying home on the first day of mini lockdown imposed to check the surging Covid 19 cases, but scores of migrant workers headed to interstate bus terminals to leave for their hometowns, apprehending the curbs may be extended beyond April 26.
As the authorities got down to handle the situation, Lt Governor Anil Baijal appealed to the migrant workers to stay back, assuring them the government will take care of all their needs including food and shelter.
Principal Secretary (Home) and Special Commissioner of Police have been appointed nodal officers to deal with the situation.
Appealing people to stay at home during the lockdown, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal Tuesday said the decision was taken in view of their health and safety.
“The lockdown in Delhi has started today. This decision has been taken in view of your health and safety. Kindly cooperate with the government and stay home to keep safe from the infection,” Kejriwal tweeted.
The lockdown follows a weekend curfew imposed on Friday night. Earlier, the government had also enforced night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am, but the surging number of coronavirus cases remained unabated.
Delhi Police said the movement on the first day of lockdown was hasslefree, however, some people were challaned for stepping out of the homes unnecessarily.
At several areas in the city, police made announcement through loudspeakers, informing people about the lockdown announced by the government and asking resident to follow all coronavirus guidelines issued by the government.
A senior police officer said that people in emergency were facilitated and those who were roaming without a valid reason were fines. They were also sensitised by police regarding the guidelines on Covid-19.
Delhi Police personnel and senior officers from the districts were on ground 24x7 to enforce the lockdown, a senior police officer said.
With only essential services allowed during the lockdown, private offices and other establishments like shops, malls, weekly markets, manufacturing units, educational and coaching institutes, cinema halls, restaurants, bars, public parks, were closed giving a deserted look to the city.