The relaxation in Covid containment measures especially in the Itanagar Capital Complex is akin to seeing light at the end of the tunnel. The months of being in and out of Lockdowns slash strict containment measures seems to have borne fruit albeit at a heavy price. As night curfew timings have been shortened and shops and businesses opening timings has been extended, an immense collective weight has been lifted from a community affected physically, psychologically and financially at the hands of a highly infectious virus.
This is also the time where citizens must not become complacent and continue to practice covid appropriate behaviour. The Itanagar Capital Complex has achieved its vaccination target as per electoral rolls which is commendable but let’s not forget the countless numbers which make up the floating population in the twin capital city, which is incredibly high. Cent per cent vaccine coverage is crucial for beating the virus or at least minimizing the severity of infection.
 The decision to open schools and all educational institutions will also be a key area which the health department and the administration must monitor with a hawk-eye. The opening of schools especially at this crucial juncture will be a make or break for Arunachal’s Covid scene. Experts have been cautioning of an imminent third Covid wave which will particularly affect children. Unlike the previous waves, which have hit the senior age groups, thus necessitating an aggressive vaccination campaign, we haven’t even begun vaccinating our children. 
How far schools follow and implement covid SOPs will be crucial. That said, children cannot be expected to follow Covid appropriate behaviour at all times which is a huge area of concern. The state has begun vaccinating left out teachers and staffers as schools open but is it enough?
The Covid pandemic has dealt us a curveball. The state must remain cautious and watchful and work in close coordination with local administration and health authorities to keep abreast with the new and evolving challenges.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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