Feature story
In a bid to control spread of Corona virus in the state, Torit transporters are calling on the authorities to strictly supervise the implementation of measure against COVID-19.
Health experts recommend regular hand washing and keeping two meter distance among others as preventive measures against the spread of the virus.
However many drivers and passengers in Torit fail to adhere to these health emergency measures.
Suleiman Omar Mohamed a driver working at Torit Bus Park says, travelers and transporters have never observed the recommended preventive measures for COVID-19 pandemic even after cases have been confirmed in Torit.
He calls on the responsible bodies to monitor the implementation of the measures at all bus parks.
‘I am not happy about this, just because I came to work does not mean I want to contract the virus or I wish someone should get it. This vehicle is supposed to carry only fourteen passengers but as you can see there are about eighteen passengers how can we prevent the spread of this disease in such situation? At least let there be a law enforcement person in the park to make sure drivers and passengers are complying with the preventive measures’, the driver complains.
According Omar, drivers are ready to adhere to measures to prevent COVID-19.
Sadam Markoa mechanic at the park however agrees that it is important for people to adhere to the preventive measures but without work, getting food for one’s family is a big challenge.
‘When the government have closedown many shops in the market, many people who depend on daily wages cannot feed their families. People have become vulnerable to hunger; the government would have done something for such people. Give something to the people to keep them in their houses and see if someone will keep on loitering in the street,’ Sadam lementsl.
On the other hand, boda boda rider calls on the ministry of health to intervene and provide for them protective equipment.
Most passengers admit the risks of overcrowding in the vehicles more especially at this critical time of COVID-19 pandemic but they are left with no options since they want to reach to their destinations.
Dr. Elijo Omoro Tahir is the Director General in the state ministry of health and the team leader for State COVID-19 taskforce.
Omoro says the ministry has given guideline to the public on how they can stay safe from corona virus disease.
Responding to the appeal by the transporters he says, the measures should be implemented by the traffic police.
Radio Emmanuel could not get comments from Torit traffic police office at the time of filling this story.
Social distancing, frequent hand washing with soap and water, avoid handshake and hugging are amongst measures to prevent corona virus spread.
On Monday April 13th, the presidency has approved recommendation by the high level Taskforce committee regarding suspension of all passenger fights and private or public transport to and from the states to Juba.
The order is set to be effective from Wednesday April 15th midnight through Wednesday April 29th midnight.