In the wake of spike in Covid infection in Tripura, especially in the West District, the Sadar Administration launched a mask enforcement drive at the GB Bazar area in Agartala on Friday (July 22). With the main referral GB Hospital in the vicinity, the market area in GB Bazar area remains crowded most of the time. The enforcement drive came after the Health Department issued advisories on Thursday.
The drive by the administration made conscious people happy as during the drive many people were found eschewing face mask while many people were found mask on their chins. . The Administration also slapped a fine of Rs 200 on people found without face mask. This resulted in a rush among the people.
Notably, the Covid situation in Tripura continues to deteriorate as fresh 414 people across the State tested Covid Positive and with this, total number of active cases inched up to 2252 in the current wave, as per the Covid bulletin till Friday morning. Total 4022 samples were tested and positivity rate is 10.29 per cent. Total 232 patients were recovered and there was no death on the date.
Out of the fresh 414 cases, as many as 137 patients were from the West District followed by 84 in South, 46 in North, 42 in Gomati, 40 in Dhalai, 32 in Unakoti, 21 in Sepahijala and 12 in Khowai district.
Unless the spread of the virus is contained and situation becomes normal, grim days ahead seem to be apparent – with the ensuing Festive season coupled with political activities for upcoming elections, the situation is likely to slip out of the hand if not controlled now.
While reckless behavior of common people is cited as the main reason for fast spreading, most of the leaders and supporters of different political parties are also equally responsible. Several political parties are conducting programmes almost every day without a scant respect to Covid appropriate behavior.
Another area of concern is that many people, even though suffering from fever, cough and cold, are avoiding covid tests and leading a normal life – like attending offices and venturing out of the residence.
According to the health department officials, in the current wave, people of all ages – from new born to elderly people – are getting affected. Even as only one patient died in the current wave, people with co-morbidity should take extra precaution.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha and Health Officials urged people to get the precautionary dose of the Covid vaccination during the ongoing special drive.
