Fear of lockdown: Nagaland denizens speak on COVID situation

KOHIMA:

 

The surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in Nagaland and the country has sparked fears of a second lockdown followed by a drop in economic activities. 

 

The Nagaland government has not decided on imposing another lockdown at present, though new COVID restrictions were issued to curb the spread of the virus. 

 

Furthermore, the government has issued revised SOPs and closure of educational institutions for classes I to VIII, including residential schools. 

 

DENIZENS SPEAK ON CURRENT SITUATION

 

TNT- The Northeast Today spoke to a few individuals to get their opinion on the spike of COVID cases in the state and the future that awaits Nagaland.

 

This is what they have to say: 

 

David, the President of the Nagaland Tourism Association, expressed uncertainty over the future of the tourism industry. He fears that business in 2021 will be extremely bad. 

 

He is of the view that lockdown is inevitable if the cases continue to rise. “But it's better to be safe than sorry,” he said. 

 

David also observed a difference in people’s behaviour and compliance to the protocols in rural and urban areas. 

 

“In the cities and towns, citizens are not sincerely adhering to the SOPs issued by the centre and state governments whereas, in the villages, compliance to regulations can be seen,” he stated. 

 

Director of India Trail Rohan Abraham said that his biggest apprehension is his safety and the people around him. 

 

“Although cases in the state are low, it doesn't mean the second wave will not hit the state and, with people travelling in and out of Nagaland, it's going to be just a matter of time,” he said. 

 

He observed that in the last few months, everyone has been taking the pandemic lightly, and the second wave is a “good wake up call” for people.

 

Adilen Kips, a farmer in Pungro town under Kiphire district, said that the pandemic is one thing but, their survival is the biggest concern. 

 

“People are burdened and worried as the second wave will be worse than the first,” he said, adding that if the second lockdown is imposed, then farmers, who had struggled all through 2020, will be the worst hit.

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