THIRUVANANTHAPURAM : As the state goes under lockdown in the wake of dire Covid conditions nationally , Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan clarified that arrangements to ensure uninterrupted supplies of food and essential commodities, are being put in place. The announcement came post a video conference held by CM with representatives of the traders’ union , Vyapari-Vyavasayi Samiti. Incidentally, the farmers’ unions too have conveyed their full support for all of government’s decisions.
There has been no criticism in the issue up to now. The shopkeeper’s fraternity is responding with heightened sense of responsibility, said CM. The present atmosphere should be sustained, keeping black marketeering and hoarding at bay. Items should be home-delivered in situations where people face difficulties reaching the shop. A system comprising shopkeepers and others should be formed at local-level for this purpose.
Prices of rice, pulses, sugar and salt should be kept stable. Masks and sanitisers should never be charged higher than costs laid down by the central govt. Shopkeepers should maintain two-week advance stocks for all items. There is no hurdle to construction activities, however general restrictions would apply to this sector as well.
If there be any hurdle to arrival of outstation trucks, lorries within the state used for other purposes may be engaged to facilitate loads inward. The motor associations should become proactive in this matter. Safe shelters should be set up for border workers. Food and health safety for drivers too should be ensured, said CM.
The video conference spanning 14 districts also wired in EP Jayarajan, E Chandrshekaran, P Thilotaman and officials including Chief Secretary.
