New Delhi, March 6

In view of the scare caused by the coronavirus, the Indian armed forces have issued advisories. The Army on Friday issued instructions to all military stations asking to avoid and postpone all non-essential mass gatherings like festivals, welfare activities and public gatherings till the situation improves.

“Local military authorities will exercise suitable control to avoid and postpone such gatherings”, says the advisory. This is in consonance with various advisories issued by the government for preparations and emergency response in tackling COVID-19.

Military hospitals have been asked to establish isolation wards and separate OPDs for screening. Hospitals will work in synergy with local civil medical authorities and designated Indian Council of Medical Research labs.

The Army Service personnel have been advised to use shopping complex facilities within the cantonment or military stations and avoid visits to crowded areas. All non-essential foreign travel is to be avoided, says the advisory. The 1.3-million strong Army has troops living in common or close proximity in forward areas.

In the Navy more than 15 ships are out on patrol or sailing duties. None of the ships have been called back. The IAF has issued its own dos and dont’s especially in bases where repairs are done and have large presence in enclosed areas. — TNS