Sinks installed in public spaces, businesses modify operations

…as Region 2 prepares for coronavirus

Authorities in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) have begun to implement several measures to protect the population against the threat of coronavirus, which has already claimed the lives of two persons in the country.

Although there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Region, stakeholders are being proactive with a number of initiatives aimed at safeguarding citizens.
In Anna Regina, the Town Council has approved several measures to keep the municipality and its residents safe.
Mayor Rajendra Prabhulall, Deputy Mayor Rudolph Williams, Town Clerk Diane Critchlow and other Councillors on Tuesday met with vendors of the Bush Lot and Anna Regina Markers, where they discussed a rotation system for the merchants.
It was agreed that with immediate effect, vendors within the markets will be rotated daily to avoid overcrowding.
Moreover, markets are expected to be closed by 14:00h every day while eateries, restaurants, and supermarkets are expected to shut their doors at 18:00h.
Vendors were also advised to have clean running water and detergent to wash their hands before and after selling.
In fact, sinks have been installed at car parks, markets, and other public places in an effort to promote constant handwashing among the populace.
Meanwhile, protective measures have been implemented for cremation ceremonies conducted at the La Union Foreshore. Cremations will be conducted at 09:00h and only one ceremony per day will be permitted. Moreover, persons are encouraged not to gather in large numbers during these events.
The Police have been called in to enforce these measures.
Citizens were urged to abide by these temporary rules for the safety of themselves, their families and friends.
Businesses
Meanwhile, several major businesses in the Region are closing their doors in an effort to protect their employees and customers against the spread of the deadly virus.
Alfro Alphonso and Sons Enterprises General Manager Eric Homes revealed that management has closed the Xenon Hotel in Charity as well as its other businesses in the Region.
In an interview with Guyana Times, Gomes called on other businesses in Region Two to do the same.
In Anna Regina, Shawn’s Mini Mart will be closing all three of its branches for two weeks with effect from Tuesday, March 31.
In New Amsterdam, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), authorities have implemented lockdown measures, which have seen non-essential businesses closing their doors while various types of essential businesses were given curfews. There is one confirmed case in the Region.
In Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), the Town Council imposed curfews for businesses as well as people. There are no known cases in Region 10.
For the capital city, Georgetown, located in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) – where there are 10 confirmed cases of COVID-19, Mayor Ubraj Narine says he will not be locking down the town.