With many countries worldwide, especially the United States, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom and France, reporting an alarming rise in the number of confirmed novel coronavirus cases and fatalities, it is a crucial time for all to follow preventive measures to contain this pandemic. Even many Asian nations, including neighbouring India and Pakistan, have been fighting the deadly virus disease. Though Nepal has reported only nine COVID-19 cases so far, the country is suspected to be at high risk of the spread of the pandemic. Following the detection of a local transmission of the virus in Kailali district recently, the federal and state governments have paid much attention towards controlling the infection. As part of its measures to cope with the contagion, the federal government has extended the nationwide lockdown until April 18. Initially, the lockdown was enforced on March 24. The government has extended the ban of international flights until April 30.  However, the tourists, who have been stranded in Nepal due to the lockdown, will get their visa renewed free of cost.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has called on people to fully abide by the lockdown and quarantine rules to keep the virus at bay. In his address to the nation on Wednesday, the Prime Minister appealed Nepalis living at home and abroad to stay safe from COVID-19. Saying that the ongoing lockdown was causing inconveniences to people, he, however, asked them to have patience for some time and help the government by staying at home and maintaining social distance. According to him, the imminent two weeks could be more challenging for the country to fight the virus. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Oli also announced that the government would establish the Corona Crisis Management Centre. The agency will coordinate, oversee and act on a war-footing to fight the pandemic. The government aims to utilise the agency for ensuring an effective implementation of all the decisions taken by the government in regard with the containment of COVID-19. He wished speedy recovery of those who have been battling with the virus and extended condolences to families of those killed by the virus worldwide, including Nepalis abroad.

Terming the doctors and health workers as frontline soldiers of the war against invisible enemy, he commended them for their dedicated efforts. As the PM stated, they have been carrying out their responsibilities honestly despite limited resources and medical equipment. They need necessary support and encouragement from one and all as they have been working at such a critical situation. The Prime Minister also expressed concerns over the difficulties faced by daily wage earners due to the lockdown. The government is very sensitive towards the poor and daily wage earners. It has provided relief to more than 114,000 needy families since the imposition of the lockdown. It has developed quarantines that can house around 30,500 persons. At present, a total of 9,168 persons have been staying at quarantines. Similarly, a total of 1,939 ambulances have been kept standby. As mandated by the government, the Nepali Army has initiated the process of importing necessary medical equipment for the detection and treatment of patients suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic.