Khurda has slipped into the red zone as the district has reported a steady increase in Covid cases. Data from the past week reveals that Khurda accounts for almost 50% of the total Covid cases in Odisha.
Moreover, the number of active cases in the district has increased by 30% in the past week and is a cause for concern. Authorities have warned that any further spikes could cause serious trouble.
The sharp surge could be attributed to recklessness as most people are ignoring Covid guidelines while celebrating Durga Puja. “Despite the night curfew from 8 pm in the Twin cities, people are seen moving without masks and social distance. Any further upsurge in the positivity rate would pose problems for the health administration,” said Director of Medical Education and Training Dr CBK Mohanty.
Notably, Odisha reported 521 new Covid cases in the past 24 hours with Khurda (249) and Cuttack (60) topping the charts.
It remains to be seen whether the night curfew imposed in the state capital can contain the caseload. Festivals in India have almost been linked to sudden spurts in Covid cases and the Odisha government would not want any complacency from the authorities.