New COVID wave in Meghalaya six times higher than first one: CM

SHILLONG:

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Monday said that the rise of COVID cases in the second wave is six times higher than the first wave. 

Terming the situation as serious, Sangma said that in the first wave, it took 114 days for the number of cases to reach 665; however, in the second wave, approximately 680 cases were reported only within 25 days.

“The rise of cases is six times higher this time compared to last time. Therefore, the situation is serious and there are a lot of concerns. We will review the situation in the next seven days and further decide on how to move forward,” Sangma told reporters in Shillong. 

The Chief Minister has sought the cooperation of people to avoid any kind of complete lockdown in the next two to three weeks. 

Precaution is the right way to move forward to reduce the growth rate of the virus, Sangma said. 

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The CM has urged citizens, especially Shillongites, to avoid going out if not necessary and to stay away from crowded places. 

“If we take basic steps, I hope we will be able to fight this particular situation in a much better manner,” he said.

As for the finances in the state, he said that the country's economy, which was on an upward trend since December and January, maybe hit in the coming few months.

“The economic hit at the national level is going to directly affect the share of central taxes of the state, but we do expect that the state will have a hit in the revenue,” Sangma said. 

“These are trying times; these are difficult times. We are ensuring that there should not be any lapses, and we should be fully prepared for any eventualities,” he added. 

ALSO READ: Meghalaya: Shillong schools to remain shut for 14 days, board exams to continue

Decisions on manpower, equipment, medicines and oxygen supply, that are required if the situation worsens, would be taken.

With specific reference to Shillong, the chief minister said, “We cannot be complacent. We need to ensure that we are taking responsibility at our level also. If that is not done then in (the next) 15-20 days, the situation could get difficult and complicated for us.”

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