Social distance must be maintained strictly

The decision to open shops and markets has evoked different reactions from different quarters as the spread of COVID-19 continues to surge.

The question is whether the decision was correct at this moment. At the same time, economic realities including the livelihood of a large number of people cannot be denied.

Lockdown has been and is being relaxed in many countries of the world with the similar considerations. However, the risk factor is not being underestimated anywhere in the world.

While easing lockdowns in some areas of the United States, authorities have warned citizens to be prepared for another lockdown if the transmission increases again.

Our economic condition is not like the rich countries like the US or like European countries. The livelihood of a large number of people in this country depends on daily income.

They have been without work for more than a month. The relief from government and private sectors is not enough for them. Many people are starving. Underprivileged, lower middle class and even middle class people cannot afford to remain unemployed for an indefinite period.

It is important to keep in mind that easing the lockdown or lifting it in places, could pose an additional health risk. We have to remember that there is no room for complacency in maintaining social and physical distance under any circumstance.

People should not be given the message that the decision to open shopping malls and markets means the risk is over. Rather the authorities must stress that the danger has not diminished in the slightest.

The risk of contracting the virus is further increased through human-to-human contact during regular activities. Now everyone needs to be more aware for the sake of their own safety. We have to try our best to stay safe from the virus.

Awareness about the risk of coronavirus has not yet developed among a large section of people in our country. Many people do not realise the importance of maintaining social and physical distance due to lack of understanding about the transmission of the virus.

Extensive campaigns need to be taken to raise awareness among them. Additional emphasis needs to be put on raising public awareness at the ward level in rural, union and municipal towns.

The campaign needs to start anew, mainly to spread the message that everyone needs to ensure their own health and safety by maintaining hygiene properly.

To stay safe, one must use masks and wash hands frequently with soap, avoid crowds, maintain physical distance with each other and return home as soon as possible after completing the necessary tasks.

National media and communities may carry out a wide awareness programme based on the World Health Organisation guidelines for health and also promote to increase civic responsibility. Various socio-cultural organisations can take part in these programmes.

Emphasis on awareness and responsibility at the individual and social level does not mean that the responsibilities of government have diminished. The government must be prepared to deal with the additional risks that are looming large right now.