Deputy Commissioner (DC), Bandipora, Shahbaz Ahmad Mirza, today imposed ban on entry of people into Gurez valley as a precautionary measure to prevent spread of COVID-19.
The Gurez – Bandipora road is presently closed for vehicular movement, as well as for movement on foot, in view of huge accumulation of snowfall at different spots.
The DC, Bandipora, said that it has come to fore that people are embarking on travel by foot on Bandipora-Gurez road in violation of the instructions of the concerned authorities, thereby putting lives in risk.
He said that the travel of new people to Gurez also poses enhanced risk of spread of Corona Virus to a geographically isolated place like Gurez valley and the ban on entry of people into the valley has been imposed, taking into consideration various advisories and precautionary measures issued by the government on prevention of spread of COVID-19.
The DC said that no vehicular movement as well as travel on foot will be allowed on Bandipora-Gurez road, with immediate effect. He directed Police and concerned BSF Unit at Tragbal to strictly implement the directions.
Meanwhile, all movement passes for travel to Gurez valley issued by any authorities have been withdrawn and cancelled with immediate effect and no new passes will be issued without prior permission from the District Magistrate.
He warned of strict action against the violators of the order under section 188 IPC and other relevant provisions of Epidemic Disease Act 1897 and the Disaster Management Act 2005.
DC Bandipora has appealed people to cooperate with the administration and ensure strict adherence to the order to contain the spread of COVID-19.
