With the activation of the zoning system in Thimphu, the Zoning Task Force has come up with few changes this time compared to the first nationwide lockdown. Designated shops will be allowed to open only if the shopkeepers test negative.
Making the zoning system safer, some 220 shopkeepers in Thimphu were tested today. The result will be declared later tonight.
Due to shorter days, the timing block to visit shops and come out has also changed. ‘‘The timing is from 9 to 11 AM in the morning, 12 to 2 PM in the afternoon, and 3 to 5 PM in the evening,’’ said Karma Yonten from His Majesty’s Secretariat.
He added, ”for new residents, those who have moved to a new location, have lost or damaged the card, can call 1010 or register at www.desuung.org.bt to get a new card. However, those who cannot come out, like older people and those with children can get their essentials delivered by the thromde officials.”
Meanwhile, residents in red zones will also be allowed to come out to buy essentials. However, those in the buildings or homes where positive cases were detected are asked to stay home.
”Residents of buildings with the positive case must remain indoors. For them, DeSuups with special Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, will make all the essential deliveries,’’ said Karma Yonten.
The zoning, according to him, is to let people come out and do shopping on their own as delivering essentials from a centralized location has become risky amidst increasing cases.
Meanwhile, people will have to adhere to zoning protocols such as following one’s time block, zone boundary, and hanging the card around their neck, among others.
Kinley Dem
