To maintain social distancing in view of the prevailing situation arising out of the COVID-19 outbreak, Section 144 CrPC has been imposed in East Khasi Hills with effect from 10 pm on Monday.
The district magistrate of East Khasi Hills, M. War Nongbri, in an order under section 144 CrPC has prohibited operations of all markets, commercial and financial establishments in East Khasi Hills district.
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The operation of all forms of public transport has also been prohibited by the district magistrate.
Also read: Meghalaya: Night curfew imposed in East Jaintia Hills from Sunday
Through the order, the district magistrate of East Khasi Hills also prohibited the gathering of five or more persons in all public areas and premises, commercial and residential localities beyond the individual households.
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The order will remain in force till 5 am on March 26, 2020, the district magistrate said.
The order comes to ensure observance of strict protocols of the advisories issued by the health & family welfare department of the Meghalaya government.
The preventive measures have been taken to “ensure social distancing and home quarantine so the pandemic of COVID-19 does not spread to East Khasi Hills district”.
However, the order will not be applicable to the security forces and medical teams on duty.
Pharmacies and all essential services including health services, medical, Public Health Engineering (PHE) department, Public Works Department (PWD), police and armed forces and Fire & Emergency Service, Food & Civil Supply department have been exempted.
Shillong Municipal Board, Telecom, Telegraph & IT services, banks and ATMs Movement of vehicles carrying essential commodities, security forces, medical equipment & goods vehicles have also been exempted.
“However, drivers and attendants of the vehicles shall be subject to medical screening as per laid down protocols,” said the order.
All members of the print and electronic media are also exempted from the purview of this order.