Police and Assam State Disaster Management Authority have launched district and state-level helpline numbers to ensure uninterrupted supply of essentials during the lockdown period.
However, supplies of essential commodities continued to be a major problem in several parts of the state.
Police officers said the idea of opening helpline numbers across the state was aimed at ensuring citizens at all levels stay indoors and avail of services. Anybody can call or WhatsApp local police and district disaster management officials to avail emergency services during the lockdown.
The police have been extending services to the needy people from supplying medicines, food items and even LPG cylinders. “Everyone is requested to kindly reach out to these numbers for any assistance. Together, we shall overcome,” Assam police tweeted.
However, for many, the state government’s assurance of constant supply of food items at home, was not fulfilled. “The government asked us to stay home and assured us that there will be no shortage of food supply. But grocery shops despite being open, are running out of stocks. There is an acute shortage of sugar, pulses, milk and baby food,” said Nirmal Deuri, a resident.
Many complained the prices of several essential commodities had shot up. Residents alleged that though the authorities had promised to sell vegetables in multiple locations in the city, they did not mention the areas and timing, leading to confusion. Many across the state continued to come out of their houses on Sunday.
At the same time, police personnel are cracking down on lockdown violators across the state. At Doboka in Hojai district, policemen dug up a cricket pitch where children were found playing.
Till 4pm on Sunday, the police arrested 340 people in 178 cases of lockdown violation. Around 906 vehicles, including 757 two-wheelers, have been seized, and fines amounting to Rs 3.85 lakh realised.
City police have also requested residents to walk to the nearest grocery shop. Using of vehicles for trivial work will invite penal action from traffic police, the police said.
