Lucknow: Curfew Of The People, By The People

By- Rahul Srivastava
LUCKNOW: Rising up to the challenge of defeating novel coronavirus infection, about 99% of the city’s 35 lakh population remained confined to their homes for over 24 hours to make Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for ‘janata curfew’ a success.
Barring a few who ventured out for essential services and emergencies, people preferred self-isolation to break the transmission chain of the virus.At some places, police asked people to stay indoors and put up barricades to check vehicular movement. Streets remained deserted and even morning and evening walkers did not come out.
According to an estimate by district administration officials, nearly 7 lakh people visit malls, multiplexes, tourist places, zoo and parks on Sundays. Besides, thousands others visit restaurants, markets, clubs, salons, parlours and cafes.
But the situation was unprecedented on Sunday as the city was under complete lockdown. Though essential services like medical shops, grocery stores and petrol pumps were allowed to open, they were also found to be closed at many places.
Girjesh Kumar (32) of Alambagh said: “Precaution is better than cure. Since there is no medicine for Covid-19, it is better to remain in isolation.”
Anand Awasthi (48), a resident of Gomtinagar, said the government should have taken such steps about a month ago.
“My seven-year-old son was agitated over the lockdown and wanted to go out and play, but when I explained him why it is necessary to stay indoors, he agreed to it,” said Meenakshi Singh of New Hyderabad.
Rahul Chauhan, who resides in an apartment on Jopling Road, said; “We did not even visit our neighbours or played cricket in the compound.”
Sukruti Singh, a student in Mahanagar, said she felt restless staying at home all day but realised it was for the safety of all.
“Not just today, we are preparing for more such lockdowns in coming days. It is necessary to break the transmission chain,” said Saba Khan of Indiranagar.