Jammu,May 18: Urging people to avoid spitting in public places, quit chewing tobacco and pan masala and maintain social distancing to defeat spread of coronavirus , Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (UT) government said that final call on lockdown 4.0, which has been extended till May 31 by the centre, will be taken on Tuesday.Advising people to refrain from spreading rumours and pay no heed to them at the same time, government reiterated that early detection of COVID-19 can prevent the spread of disease so we need to be responsible for the well-being of ourselves and everyone around us. Jammu and Kashmir has recorded 1183 total positive cases while 13 persons have died till Sunday evening. However, 575 have also recovered, an official spokesman said, adding 595 are still active. As many as over 81000 tests were also conducted, he added.Describing spitting in public places as a nuisance which spreads COVID-19 infection, he advised the people to quit chewing tobacco and pan masala for a safer and better health.
“To Quit Tobacco Call Toll free National Tobacco Quit Line 1800112356 or Give a Missed Call at 011-22901701”, the bulletin further urged the people.He urged upon the people to maintain physical distance of at least 2 metre from others which is the best way to protect themselves against COVID-19 besides frequently cleaning your hands with an alcohol based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.He explained that early detection of COVID-19 can prevent the spread of disease so we need to be responsible for the well-being of ourselves and everyone around us. “Not disclosing symptoms could put life of individuals and their families at risk. In case of symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty in breathing report early. Do not fear, call COVID-19 helpline numbers and seek medical advice.”He reiterated that social distancing in public places & workplaces wearing a face cover is compulsory.
Spokesman urged people not to step out of home, unless absolutely necessary. “If you have to move out for unavoidable reasons, ensure that you wear a mask and practice social distancing, personal hygiene and frequent handwashing with soap and water.”However, in case of any emergency people can avail free ambulance services 24×7 at their doorsteps by calling on toll-free number 108 while as pregnant women and sick infants can avail free ambulance services by dialling toll-free number 102.
People are advised to strictly follow the advisories issued by the government from time to time and are urged to rely only on the information released by the government through the daily media bulletin to print and electronic media.
Meanwhile, Chief secretary BVR Subrahmanyam, who also happens to be the Chairperson, State Executive Committee last night said that guidelines and instructions already in force in the UT during lockdown 3.0 issued on May 3 will continued till May 19 when the Government will make detailed assessment of the situation and take call on lockdown 4.0 which has been extended till May 31 and guidelines for which were released today by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.The order of Subrahmanyam came minutes after the NDMA extended lockdown till May 31 countrywide. Noting that the fresh guidelines released today require State and UT Governments to delineate Red, Green and Orange Zones based on their assessment and prohibit or regulate such other activities or impose restrictions as deemed necessary, the order said this will require detailed assessment of the spread of COVID-19 in Jammu and Kashmir. In view of this, the Government ordered that the guidelines/instructions issued vide Order dated May 3 shall remain valid till May 19.
