Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Mar 31: Sudha Murthy of Infosys Foundation has agreed to contribute masks and other essential items worth Rs 90 lac to Udupi district, said Muzrai, Fisheries and Ports minister Kota Srinivas Poojary.

Speaking at a press conference at Udupi zilla panchayat, Poojary said that a total of 1050 people are under home quarantine and 140 samples have been sent for testing in Udupi district of which 14 results are awaited. Three positive cases have been identified in the district. All these cases will be shifted to Dr TMA Pai hospital in Udupi. A dedicated hospital for COVID -19 patients is being set-up, he said conveying his gratitude to MAHE administration for their support.

"From April 1, through 292 society ration stores, essential food items will be distributed. Social distancing will be maintained in shops. Certain number of people will be allowed on certain days. Seven kg rice from state government along with 5 kg rice from central government will be distributed. Hospitals have been set-up for every taluk. Tractors and other agricultural machinery are not to be stopped from serving. Udupi district is ready to handle the situation,” he added.

Speaking about the public behaviour of panic buying, Srinivas Poojary said, "People should understand that relaxation is given to buy the essential items only. In the name of buying essential items, people cannot roam unnecessarily.”

Answering to questions about the strict action from the police the minister said, "I have already asked Police to clearly check every moving vehicle. Allow the movement of vehicles only if necessary," he said.

Raghupati Bhat, Udupi MLA, Lalaji Mendon, Kaup MLA, Dinakar Babu, president zilla panchayat and others were present during the press conference.