Lockdown Alone Won’t Solve Corona: Telangana Minister

Amidst huge spike in Covid-19 cases and growing helplessness to control the pandemic in Telangana state, there were reports of state government imposing lockdown in the worst-hit GHMC region and its adjacent regions. In fact, none other than CM KCR himself had given indications that the government is considering the option as it is getting several requests to impose lockdown to stop the spread. While the dilemma over lockdown continues and the state government hasn’t convened a cabinet meeting yet, the doubts over lockdown are increasing. In this backdrop, minister Talasani’s comments have gained significance. Of late, Talasani is playing an active role in the government and moving close to CM KCR. As he holds portfolios like Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Cinematography, his comments on Lockdown are to be noted.

Speaking to the media the other day, Talasani said, “Lockdown is not a panacea. It is not the complete solution for Corona. It can’t even control it totally. I urge people to not step out unless it is an emergency. I urge people to adhere to all the guidelines and follow strict cleanliness. Don’t step out without masks and sanitize your hands thoroughly.”

Admitting that even private hospitals have given up and are not able to admit patients due to heavy rush, Talasani said that a few had criticized the government that why it was not giving permission to private hospitals to treat Covid. “What’s happening now? Patients are waiting for nearly 10 hours outside private hospitals to get admitted and treated. This is not correct. They should respond to patients in a responsible manner,” said Talasani adding that the private hospitals are not in a position to even take care of the patients who visited the hospitals.

Meanwhile, Talasani urged people to not panic and said that Covid-19 is not as dangerous as we had thought. He said that it would be adverse to the people who have other complications. “Hence, don’t worry. There is a treatment. The state has experienced doctors to treat. So, people should not panic,” said Animal Husbandries minister. Talsani’s comments indicated that the government may not impose a lockdown.

Already, the state government suffered huge revenue loss in April and May when the lockdown was implemented. In fact, the government had paid half salaries to the government employees and only 75 percent of pensions to retired employees. Considering all these, the state government seems to be on a backfoot on lockdown.