Odisha Govt declares coronavirus a 'disaster'; shuts down schools, colleges, theatres

Odisha Government on Friday declared COVID-19 as a 'disaster' under provisions of Disaster Manment Act, 2005 to equately empower public officials to combat spre of coronavirus. CM Naveen Patnaik said government has earmarked Rs 200 crore to combat coronavirus threat in state and anunced closure of educational institutions in state till March 31 except for holding examinations.

'Our collective responsibility is only hope'

"We are faced with a threat that does t discriminate between developed countries and underdeveloped countries between democratic or n-democratic countries. Rich and Poor societies all are equally vulnerable," Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said in a statement. "Each one of us in Odisha has to rise to occasion and be responsible. In absence of any vaccine or treatment, our collective responsibility is only hope we have, to fight this epidemic," he ded.

Patnaik urged people to remain calm but t complacent. "We must remain prepared, but t panic," he said. He furr anunced that an amount of Rs 200 crore has been earmarked to augment Public Health Response Fund to combat threat of pandemic. " experience of China and Singapore and Italy has given us learning on what to do and what t to do. I must confess entire world is on a learning curve about handling this disaster," Chief Minister ded.

He urged public to join hands in managing situation. "This is where it is very important that four and a half crore Odias join toger and help us in managing situation. Each one of us has a responsibility to ourselves, to our families and to communities we live in," he said.

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Chief Minister h earlier anunced that all educational institutions shall remain closed till March 31, except for holding examinations. n-essential official garings such as seminars, workshops, conferences have also been canceled. Social garings and assemblies like religious functions, marri receptions, parties etc. are to be regulated by local authorities. Cinemas, swimming pools and gyms will also remain closed till March 31.

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