Team Herald
Panjim: While on one side a small Dabe village in Sattari taluka, with 63 COVID-19 cases is been declared as ‘micro-containment zone’, to prevent further spread of virus; Panjim and its neighbouring Porvorim, which together accounts for over eight percent of the State’s total active cases, have been left out of “containment” or “buffer” zone. Moreover, the source of infection in these areas is still not known as cases continue to surge.
Panjim, that reported Goa’s 1st COVID case in March, with no more cases until July, had 167 active cases as on August 13; at an average of 10-15 per day.
The city reported the maximum number of cases from Altinho, the part of which is under barricading, post death of a 28-year old-boy.
Cases are spread across Altinho, St Inez, Bhatlem, Mala, Caranzalem, Ribandar, central Panjim, Patto, Market, and Miramar. The localities were barricaded.
However, with the rising number of cases, the locals from Panjim have raised concern over their safety given that the virus has infected all sections like housewives, students, journalists, bank employees, government servants, and others.
“When there were cases like 15- 20 in villages, the areas were declared as micro containment zones. But no such step has been taken to have Panjim under complete lockdown, which is the need of the hour,” a local resident said.
When contacted, Panjim MLA Atanasio Monserrate claimed that there is no need for a complete lockdown of the city since proper precaution and necessary restrictions have already been imposed in the affected areas. “We cannot put the entire city under lockdown. It is not possible. But we are barricading the affected areas to ensure there is no spread,” he said.
The MLA maintained that the source of infection is not known so far.
Panjim Mayor Uday Madkaikar said the Corporation is taking all steps to ensure there is no spread. “But since the source of infection is not known, we are unable to take any step,” he said.
He added that complete lockdown is not feasible at this point, keeping in mind the upcoming Ganesh festival, scheduled next week. “Complete lockdown will cause unnecessary panic and rush at stores leading to more cases,” the Mayor explained.
On the other hand, Porvorim is also witnessing a surge in cases. The sub-urban area has 113 active cases as on Thursday.
The local MLA Rohan Khaunte has slammed the government’s failure to control the spread of the virus.
“I request all Porvorkars to please take all the precautions for the next few weeks till the cases in our constituency come under control. Please wear a mask, maintain social distance and avoid venturing out unless very necessary,” he said.
He urged people to limit the Ganesh Chaturthi celebration to one and a half day.
