During this global pandemic of COVID-19, we need the cooperation of every citizen to fight Coronavirus disease. Till date there has not been a single case detected in our state of Meghalaya, but that does not mean we can be complacent. Therefore, the next four weeks are crucial for our state to break the transmission chain of the virus. I appeal to every citizen of the state to adhere to all the guidelines and advisories issued by the state government. I kindly urge everyone to postpone all personal, professional and social activities during this crucial time.

The 21st March, 2020 is to be observed as CORONAVIRUS AWARENESS DAY (CAD) where all offices, banks (government and private), institutions, public places, market places and public transport will remain closed. I urge citizens to not look at this as a “LOCKDOWN” but this time must be utilized and observed as a ‘Coronavirus Awareness Day’ to understand and prevent the spread of coronavirus disease in the state by playing our part as individuals, families, locality and society at large.

I appeal to all the citizens to take this day to focus and become aware about this pandemic disease and take steps to protect oneself and your close ones. I urge my beloved citizens to kindly report any travel history in the last 14 days, like students, working professionals private and govt both to use any of the three ways to inform the govt.

1. BY CALLING 108 Helpline number
2. BY REGISTERING ON THE ONLINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM (meghalayaonline.gov.in/covid)
3. BY CALLING respective DC OFFICE CONTROL ROOM

I would also urge them to kindly maintain social distancing including self quarantine, and maintain personal hygiene like handwash protocol. We also urge the Headmen to take proactive steps to identify and inform of the same. The Medical Volunteers and District Surveillance Team members will reach out to those identified households through phone or make visits if necessary to provide necessary guidance and care to those families for next 14 days. I would also like to inform you that the government is taking all necessary steps to maintain essential commodities and I appeal to every citizen to not panic and try to remain calm and also let us not stigmatize any person suspected of coronavirus.

We must remember that India is currently at Stage 2 of the pandemic and we must all do our part to ensure that the country does not transition into Stage 3 or 4. Fellow citizens let me reiterate that following the prescribed guidelines will reap huge dividends, therefore please avoid social gatherings (i.e social distancing), practice social distancing, maintain hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

You must Protect Yourself, Your Family and the Entire Society.

Thank you | Khublei | Mitela | Jai Hind