Barring few areas, delivery of essentials kicks off in dist

Tribune News Service

Patiala, March 26

After initial hiccups, the district administration was able to set off the distribution of essential items on Thursday. A majority of areas in the city got smooth supply of milk by the district administration. The vegetable supply, which is being provided through vans in respective areas, has also started in many areas.

However, people were not doing their bit by not following social distancing while buying vegetables. In many areas, police personnel were seen assisting the vans in maintaining the social distancing to curb any spread of the disease.

The administration was able to start the continuous supply of fruits and medicines. Patiala Deputy Commissioner Kumar Amit said efforts were being to ensure a smooth supply of essential items. Requesting people, he said, “Essential items will be provided at doorsteps. People should not come out of their houses.”

Food delivery by shopkeepers takes a hit

Meanwhile, the home delivery services have been in disarray on the first day — after residents resorted to panic buying. As soon as Patiala Deputy Commissioner Kumar Amit flashed the list of grocery and chemist shops of the respective areas, in the district, the services were hit by huge rush of orders by the residents. On the first day itself, barring few, majority of the shopkeepers remained unavailable and could not be contacted — despite repeated attempts, until afternoon.

Help for needy

Commando battalions of the Punjab Police on a voluntary humane mission — distributed free of cost meal to the poor people in various districts of Punjab. According to ADGP, Rakesh Chandra, officers and men of Special Operations Group and Commando battalions – with their contribution — cooked and distributed the food among the Below poverty Line families. “This will continue for the next three weeks,” he said.