Health emergency declared in Bhatkal until further orders

Bhatkal, 27 Mar 2020 [Fik/News Sources]: Dr Harishkumar K.  Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Uttara Kannada district has declared a state of ‘health emergency’ in the Bhatkal to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Addressing a news conference at the DC’s office on the morning of March 27, he said that Bhatkal is a very small town but there are a large number of people from here working abroad. Two COVID-19 positive cases have already been identified in Bhatkal. Swabs with throat samples of those who came into direct contact with these two have been sent for testing. In the wake of this situation, a health emergency has been declared in Bhatkal Town Council, Jali Taluk Panchayat, Shirali Gram Panchayat, Heble Gram Panchayat, Mavinakurve Grama Panchayat, Mundalli Grama Panchayath, Yalwadikavur Gram Panchayat and Muttalli Gram Panchayat.

The DC further stated that Assistant commissioner Sajid Mulla has been given the full authority to take precautions in preventing the spread of the virus in Bhatkal. Officers have been given individual responsibilities, such as health, law and order, and general supervision.

He also clarified that there will be no financial restrictions in managing this emergency.

District Superintendent of Police Shivprakash Devaraju was also present in the conference.