Delhi prepared to ensure essential supplies: Kejriwal

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday said the city is prepared to ensure essential supplies during the 21-day lockdown, urging people to avoid panic buying.

Kejriwal, along with Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, held a digital press conference, where he listed the updates on Delhi's efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

The Chief Minister said duty passes will be issued to all those who are involved in essential services but don't have formal IDs.

He said the government will issue e-Pass to shopkeepers who provide essential commodities. "After getting the pass, they will be able to open their shops. The facility to apply online will be provided," he said.

The e-Pass will be for grocery shops, milk plant workers and others. Kejriwal said once the e-passes are issued, one can open shop related to essential commodities.

"A helpline number will be activated for that in few hours."

A helpline has been also issued by the police if the common man feels any issue from them. "Please call 23469536 for reporting against any form of inconvenience caused by the police."

Baijal said while the government would ensure effective implementation of the lockdown, it also wants minimum inconvenience to people.

"During the lockdown, we would assure that essential supplies are maintained," Baijal said.

Kejriwal said the government will ensure that no one goes to sleep hungry.

He said people should try that they should not step outside the house during the lockdown.

"Milk, vegetable, daily use items are essential and people have to step out to buy and sell it. There is no need to panic. If we gather in large number at shops, the purpose of the lockdown will be defeated."

The Prime Minister on Tuesday announced a 21-day nation-wide lockdown from Wednesday to check the spread of coronavirus. IANS