Stay at home during lockdown to fight against the invisible enemy : Jagan

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S Jagan Mohan Reddy, while addressing the people of the state on 26 March, urged them to stay united in the fight against this invisible enemy. He also took the opportunity to thank all those working tirelessly to fight the Corona virus in the state, like village volunteers, ASHA workers, ANMs, doctors, and health workers.

With a network of over 4.3 lakh volunteers and grama secretariat employees, AP is the first state to not only trace more than 11,000 foreign returnees but also the first in the country to set up isolation wards at multiple locations, Jagan said. "Four critical care hospitals have been set up in the state to ensure that we are prepared to face all eventualities," the CM said, adding, collectors have been given strict orders to ensure that all problems raised by citizens are solved immediately. "Any citizen who needs food, water, accommodation, medication or any other necessities can call the one helpline number 1902. We assure prompt and timely action in each case," he assured.

Jagan said that every single guideline issued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi should be followed, adding, strict action will be taken against those who violate the rules. Stressing on unity during these trying times, he said, "We should help each other without considering any differences and keeping in mind the larger picture."

He said that some market areas in the state were overcrowded the past four days and said measures will be taken to enforce social distancing. "Our duty is to ensure that all necessities are available in abundance. We will also ensure that measures are taken for the same," he said.

Regarding Wednesday's incidents along the Andhra-Telangana border, Jagan said, "It is hurtful that the situation has become such that we aren't even able to welcome our people with a smile when they want to come back home. My heart aches to say this but such is the situation." However, he said the travel restrictions were in place for a reason and requested people to stay where they are as of now. "Not wanting to say no to our people, we let nearly 40,000 people out. All of them will have to be put into quarantine centres. That's necessary," Jagan said. He requested all those coming back to AP to consider the threat they pose not only to themselves but to others as well. "I spoke to Telangana Chief Minister KCR and he has assured me that he will take care of all people living in Telangana," the CM said.