Corpn lays containment net around ‘epicentres’

As per the plan that is being implemented since Sunday, the houses where coronavirus positive persons reside would be considered the epicentre. “Corporation staff will inspect 2,500 houses around the epicentre door-todoor every day to track cases with fever and other symptoms,” said Corporation Commissioner G Prakash. Apart from the immediate 2,500 houses, those located outside the radius would also be verified by Corporation workers once in two days for 28 days. During the drive, 4,750 workers and 1,500 school teachers would be deployed. “All protective equipment will be issued, and basic enquiries will be done from a safe distance,” the Commissioner added.

So far, 15 positive cases have been reported from Arumbakkam, Purasaiwalkam, Virugambakkam, Saidapet, West Mambalam, Valasaravakkam, Porur, Santhome, Kotturpuram and Alandur.

The civic body also requested the people in these areas to remain at home and to come out only for the essential needs. “Residents have to make their own arrangements to get the products through home delivery by keeping a basket outside the houses,” Prakash added.

Meanwhile, data from the Corporation show that 20,240 persons have been kept under quarantine at 19,120 homes. As on Sunday, 1,120 persons have completed their 28-day isolation.

A week after closing city beaches, the Greater Chennai Corporation closed Marina Loop Road from Sunday. Corporation Commissioner G Prakash said the road would remain closed till further orders. On Sunday, the Corporation workers conducted a containment drive on the road using heli spray (drones) after a COVID-19 positive case has been reported in Santhome area. The closedown of the Loop Road will affect around 350 fish vendors, who run shops on the platform of the road, as neither vehicles nor customers would be able to enter road. Amid the COVID-19 outbreak, the Chennai Corporation had already closed Marina, Elliot’s and other beaches within its jurisdiction. The Loop Road is being used to mitigate traffic on Santhome High Road despite the opposition of fishermen in the locality.