Bagmati State CM pledges to ensure essential supplies and livelihood support measures

Bagmati State Chief Minister Dormani Poudel has pledged to implement all possible measures required for the prevention of possible risk of hunger when the country is under a weeklong lockdown amidst a growing fear of an outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Delivering a message in the name of the state people today, the Chief Minister assured essential supplies would be ensured and special provisions would be taken to support livelihood of poor, daily- wage earners and weaker sections if the duration of lockdown against the COVID-19 is needed to be extended.

"The COVID-19 pandemic emerging as a grave threat to the entire human beings is getting more aggressive and in these challenging hours, I urge all Nepali sisters and brothers to follow officially suggested basic preventive measures against the disease and to remain extra careful so as aovid the prevention risk."

"Our single misstep and negligence may push our dear and loved ones and the entire society towards fatal death. The entire world is in fear due to this monstrous virus and people from most of the countries are presently inside homes to stay safe from the infection. So we have to stay homes and help the State fight against the coronavirus." the chief minister said.

He calls upon one and all to avoid non-essential movements and travels and contribute to the full implementation of lockdown, proving oneself as a responsible citizen. He further highlighted the need of people’s cooperation in the government’s efforts to stem the spread of virus when three cases have already confirmed in the country, hinting the possibility of further tough measures including the extension of lockdown. "Future measures will depend on the sensitivity and gravity of upcoming situation." However, essential supplies such as the supplies of medicine, foodstuff and fuel would be guaranteed and the hunger risk would be averted through special measures.

The chief minister also appealed to all including the village people to maintain social distancing and not to visit anyone’s home at present.

He also thanked the security people, medical persons and health workers who are on the frontline in the fight against the virus.

People have been urged to make local representatives or nearby police office informed if noticed new faces or recent arrival of people from other countries in their communities.