‘COVID cases spike among Army & Paramilitary forces worrisome’,IPR Chief S.C Gupta

(IPR) Chief Secretary Shri S.C Gupta convened a meeting with senior officers of the Army, ITBP, SSB and GREF today to discuss the latest situation of surge in the number of Covid-19 cases especially from army and the paramilitary forces.

The Chief Secretary sought information about the mechanism of quarantine administered by these forces in Siliguri. He emphasized on enhancing the frequency of testing to ensure that cases are detected early and required action taken by the medical team.

The Chief Secretary suggested that each person lodged in the quarantine in Siliguri should be tested from the seventh day onwards instead of waiting for them to complete 14 days of quarantine.

He suggested the army and the paramilitary forces to immediately start randomized testing, before they travel to Sikkim. The Chief Secretary also informed that the army and paramilitary forces will be tested mandatorily at the Rangpo checkpost once the Antigent testing commences.

The Chief Secretary also suggested for random testing of drivers and staff engaged in transportation of essential commodities for the army and other forces on a regular basis.

The Chief Secretary categorically stated that Melli Checkpost has been sealed for entry of returnees. He said that the same would apply for exit of the forces through the border check post. He requested the forces to use the Rangpo Checkpost route for both entry and exit.

The meeting concluded with the consensus of the officers of the forces on the decisions made. The meeting was also attended by Principal Secretary, Health, Shri K. Srinivasulu, DG cum Secretary, Health, Dr. Pempa T. Bhutia, and Secretary, IPR Department, Ms. Namrata Thapa.

Report by Prakash, Special Correspondent Sikkim

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