The state failed to confront Covid despite the closures and restrictions paralyzing all sectors. Realising this, the government has lifted the restrictions. The new decision is to bring control at the micro-contamination zone level by estimating the number of Covid victims in proportion to the population. States like Punjab have already implemented such measures. There he saw the result. Even the opening of schools there is being considered as the daily number of cases is very low.

At present, half of the daily Covid cases in the country are from Kerala. So though closure has changed, relief is nowhere near. There are also those who point out that the low number of Covid cases is due to the lack of inspections in other states. In any case, Kerala needs to be extra vigilant for a while. There needs to be more self-control on the part of the people, especially during Onam which comes in two weeks. At the same time, the government should take immediate action to intensify the vaccination drive. At current speed, it takes at least eight months to complete the vaccination of people over 18 years of age. Currently, only 23 per cent of people in the state have received two doses of the vaccine. Therefore, there should be continuous effort and pressure from the Kerala side to procure more vaccines from the Centre. Consideration may also be given to appointing a special team based in Delhi. At the same time, steps should be taken to utilize the 25 per cent vaccine share of the private sector. The spread of Covid can only be stopped if the government takes all measures to make the vaccine available to the maximum number of people.

Those who go out to buy Onam items should take some precautions. Every family should have a plan for that. Care should be taken not to let family members go together on the same day. Also avoid visiting different shops on the same day. The police should also do away with levying petty fine on people. Everyone should be careful not to neglect personal vigilance. Everyone must be convinced that the freedom given is not for taking it for granted.