Family of 5 survives on one meal a day

Ravneet Singh

Tribune News Service

Patiala, April 1

Residents of Gopal Colony have been a harried lot in the wake of Covid-19 scare.

Munna, who earns Rs 8,000 per month by ferrying schoolchildren has lost his livelihood after the government imposed curfew in the state. As a result, a family of five is surviving on one meal comprising two chappatis, cereal and rice provided by area councillor.

Suraj, who works as a helper, has been waiting for essentials. “Only food is provided to us. From first day of curfew, we have not received ration.”

Residents having pucca houses continue to live there while those living in jhuggis left the area after it was flooded in July 2019. “This area is flooded time and again,” said a 15-year-old youth.

Pointing towards a family of six, Bunty said, “This family feeds themselves by picking up vegetables. The authorities should provide them some relief. There are over 150 houses in the area. Some do not get cooked food as well.”

Residents claimed they have submitted the list twice, but have not received essential items till date.

Harish Nagpal, area councillor, said, “We are providing cooked food to over 3,000 people in different parts of the city. Ration has not been provided in our area. Lists of residents were prepared though.”

Poonamdeep Kaur, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, said, “We are providing cooked food to people and are working on providing ration to the needy.”