East Singhbhum district administration has launched a special drive to restrict movement of people on the streets in an effort to somehow stall the spread of the coronavirus in the steel city.

During the drive, already on in certain pockets of the city, officials would check whether people, who are out have a legitimate reason for being outdoors. They will insist people wearing masks and those on two-wheelers have helmets. Officials will also check vehicles to see that paperwork is on order.

The district administration has set up drop-gates at strategic points on the main arteries and roundabouts. “The drive is to stop people from coming outdoors without valid reasons. Barring those who are dealing with emergencies, anyone found on the streets without a valid reason will be penalised or prosecuted," deputy commissioner Suraj Kumar said on Thursday.

Kumar said checking would be conducted at random. The district administration has identified about 15 places, including DBaug-e-Jamsheed School roundabout, Old Book Store, Keenan Stadium (all in Bistupur), Sakchi roundabout, Jugsalai roundabout, the railway station area under Bagbera thana, Parsudih, Golmuri, Ulidih, Mango and Golmuri.

During the last 24 hours, as many as 140 new coronavirus cases, primarily from the steel city, were recorded. The total number of Covid cases in East Singhbhum district stood at 1,707. Of the 140 cases, 12 had a travel history. The remaining 128 people had come in contact with infected persons.

Health department sources said cases were being reported across localities. Many belonged to the police department as well as hospitals. Among those who tested positive on Wednesday were 11 nurses and one doctor, all posted at the MGM Medical College Hospital, and nine policemen, including five from Golmuri police lined.