A total lockdown has been imposed in East Khasi Khasi Hills (EKH) district from 8 pm of May 19 to May 31, by the Govt of Meghalaya.

The decision for extension of lockdown by 10 days has been taken due to surge in COVID cases in the district, informed Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong.

“We are compelled to take the 10 days lockdown after the consulting experts and the Health Department,” he said.

The government has authorized the respective Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of the other districts to take necessary decisions based on the cases and situation, informed Tynsong.

The DC will coordinate with the Superintendent of Police (SP) and SP (City) to make sure that absolute lockdown is followed by all.

The DC will accommodate emergency and essential services for the people of East Khasi Hills.

The lockdown will not affect the vaccination process.

“The government would request citizens of EKH as well as residents of Meghalaya to kindly adhere, respect and strictly follow regulations issued by the government,” he said.

He continued, “During the total lockdown in East Khasi Hills, we will not allow movement outside or inside the EKH district except for unavoidable and emergency services. Stay wherever you are and please don’t come to EKH especially Shillong city,”.

He said, “We feel for those who live from hand to mouth but we are compelled to take the step as it is a matter of survival. We expect that the lockdown we will see a decrease in the cases.”

Only 15 people are allowed to attend funeral services.

The Health Department has been asked to chalk out a detailed plan on setting up isolation care centres at the community level. Tynsong requested the traditional heads and civil organizations to coordinate with the government.

The District administration and local heads have been directed to look after the supply of essential commodities. No shops will remain open during the total lockdown period.