Coronavirus cases are rapidly increasing in the country. The central and state governments are taking all possible steps to prevent it from spreading. Lockdown period is going to over soon though it is likely to be extended as suggested by PM Modi in an all-party meet. This situation has left people to speculate how people from vulnerable communities will survive, how the economy will work and whether there will be total freedom after the lockdown is lifted. Many state governments have advised extending the lockdown period while some states, including Delhi, have implemented Section 144 in some particular belts perhaps for hotspots based on the Bhilwara model
Meanwhile, 17 out of 27 corona infected patients have recovered in Bhilwara, Rajasthan. The central government has encouraged others to adopt the Bhilwara model across the country. Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, in a meeting with the Chief Secretary of the states through video conferencing, while appreciating the measures taken in Bhilwara, has indicated the implementation of this model across the country.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said, “We sealed the borders the day we got to know about the case of the doctor being positive with the virus in Bhilwara and it is becoming a learning ground after the commendable efforts.” The chief minister also mentioned in a tweet a few days ago, “The State Government has taken the right decisions at the right time. These steps of the Rajasthan Government are being appreciated throughout the country. COVID-19’s Community Transmission to Stop the Central Government has also appreciated the measures taken by the State Government.”
Sachin Pilot also said that the curfew in Bhilwara where even pass was also not issued for any movement helped them fight Coronavirus.
What is the Bhilwara Model?
Bhilwara was found to be a hotspot where coronavirus was spreading rapidly after it was discovered that a doctor was tested positive. The state government sealed this district and visited people’s home for a survey of symptoms and people with whom they had come into contact. People who showed symptoms were tested and quarantined, hotels were taken over by state government as quarantine centres, even grocery and essential items were delivered at the homes of people by the government.
Now, this method of geographical identification of hotspot and sealing that area is being praised and the government may do this at other places if and when it revokes lockdown order, maybe after total lockdown only identified areas will be under the scanner.
The number of patients had reached 27 but this number is now stable. Of the 27 patients, 17 have been cured, and nine of those have been discharged from the hospital.
All private hospitals and hotels are currently occupied by the administration. Apart from this, the facility of door-to-door screening is being given. Public representatives, social organizations and even the media have been banned inside the city. Only a few officers of the administration and police are seen inside the city.
The curfew has been in force in the district for 17 days, with the last three days strict curfew being followed. Emphasis is being given to people to follow social distancing. Raw materials are being provided in the houses on behalf of the police. Food is being arranged for the poor people who need to eat.
So, it is also a probability that after the lockdown is lifted, the government may geographically quarantine the hotspots of coronavirus to stop community transmission. It will help the economy and make it easier to target and treat in an identified closed space.