COVID-19 Spike In Maharashtra: Odisha Govt Directs Dists To Strictly Enforce Preventive Norms

Bhubaneswar: With Maharashtra reporting over 6,000 fresh COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours marking highest jump in a single day over last three months, the Odisha government has directed the collectors and SPs and municipal heads to remain alert and strictly enforce preventive measures.

In a letter to the district collectors, SPs and urban body authorities on Friday, additional chief secretary Pradipta Mohapatra stated that there has been a surge of COVID-19 positive cases across some states, notably Maharashtra in the recent past. “In view of movement of people across the country, it is quite possible that such a situation may arise in Odisha unless adequate precautions are taken,” he said.

Considering the threat perception of resurgence of the disease, Mohapatra directed the officers to ensure strict enforcement of ‘COVID appropriate behavior’ in the areas under their jurisdiction.

“Adequate testing levels should be maintained as per guidelines. Special care has to be taken to ensure that these measures are implemented in crowded places such as markets, religious institutions etc,” the letter said.

It may be noted that 6,112 people tested positive for COVID-19 in Maharashtra on Friday taking the active number of active cases to 44,765. It has led several districts in the state to clamp lockdown.