Day 24: Normal life remains affected in Kashmir

Srinagar, May 22: Normal life remained affected in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday for the 24th consecutive day due to lockdown in the wake of the continuing surge in covid-19cases, officials said.
Police and paramilitary forces kept barricades on roads at many places in Srinagar as well as in other district headquarters of the Valley and the Jammu region to prevent the movement of people. However, essential and emergency services are allowed, the officials added.
Most of the shops, and other business establishments remained shut while public transport was off the roads.
In view of the alarming surge in daily cases across the Kashmir Valley, Police said to have enhanced the efforts to implement the Covid-19 guidelines, SOPs and restrictions strictly throughout the valley.
“During the last 24 hours, Police has arrested 214 persons, lodged 102 FIRs and also realized fine to the tune of Rs 1,45,360 from 941 people for violating the guidelines/rules throughout Kashmir valley,” a police spokesman told GNS, adding, “Besides, a vehicle was seized and 02 shopkeepers were also booked by police in Budgam for violating Covid-19 norms.”
On April 29, the administration imposed a curfew in 11 districts in a bid to arrest the surge in Covid-19 cases, which has been extended to all the 20 districts till 7 am on May 31.
“The special drive against the violators of Covid-19 guidelines/rules continued throughout all the districts of Kashmir Valley to ensure that people adhere to SOPs/ guidelines envisaged by government to curb COVID-19 pandemic,” the spokesman said, adding, “Community members are once again requested to cooperate with the Police in containing the spread of Coronavirus by following the SOPs/ guidelines/ protocols for the safety of the people. The special drive shall remain continue throughout the districts of Kashmir Valley to strengthen the safety measures.” (GNS)