OPEN LETTER TO GOA CM - Suggestions on Extension of Lock down in event of Covid 19 -Soter

OPEN LETTER

April 8, 2020

To:

The Chief Minister,

Government of Goa,

Govt. Secretariat,

Porvorim, Goa.

Sub: Suggestions on Extension of Lock down in  event of Covid 19

Sir,

From the various press sources we have been informed that the Cabinet Ministers in the Government of Goa are meeting today to discuss the way forward as the end of the 21-day Covid 19 lock-down period approaches. We need to be thankful to the God Almighty and the efforts of the Goa Government, though delayed and harsh, that the spread has not galloped as in many neighbouring States. Again going by reports from certain media sources, it appears that there are mindless noises from various quarters in Goa for continuation of the lock down period. For some who have food on their plates and pots of money in their savings this novelty of curfews and lock-downs may sound entertaining and exciting. 

It is in this regard that I hereby appeal to you for a humane and judicious approach towards the further use of the lock-down option for containment of Covid 19 in the State. One needs to bear in mind, that it is not just  the availability of food that is enough for a healthy society. There are many aspects in people's existence which need to be borne in mind. If students have to study from home they need stationary and other requirements. Many Goans live in heritage houses, bungalows or even huts unlike those in gated communities in the towns and metros. With the monsoons approaching people in Goa are known to prepare and store food provisions for the rainy season and also carry out maintenance works to their houses which necessitates the availability of food ingredients, hardware, timber, electrical accessories, etc. For many of these maintenance activities labour is very much required. Many citizens have used this lock-down period to cultivate various hobbies  but if the necessary materials are not available these too cannot be pursued beyond a point. 

It is my humble suggestion that the State may go into a partial lock-down mode if necessary, while certain high risk zones, if any, be tackled with special restrictions. No family or public gatherings must be allowed for a further period as may be required depending on the nation-wide trend of the Covid 19 infections. As far as possible crowding in market places must be discouraged possibly by making available various essentials and other necessities at the village level. Public should be allowed to access government offices and banks within the taluka level. All these activities must be strictly carried out with social distancing and other hygienic behaviours. The use of any personnel of government or aided education institutions beyond the age of 45 years should not be exposed in carrying out home to home surveys and other such activities for prevention and containment of Covid 19, considering that Goa is also in the high risk zone for Hypertension and Diabetes. Over-crowding in public transport buses and taxis, if commenced,  should be stringently discouraged. All citizens accessing public spaces must cover their nose and mouth with a face mask. Spitting and blowing of nose in public places and other such filthy practices must be strictly prevented.

I trust that the Government of Goa will consider humane solutions, which are also fair and equitable in application, for the prevention and containment of the Covid 19 pandemic.

Yours Sincerely,  
--

Soter D'Souza

984/4, 

Porvorim, Bardex, Goa.