Shillong, May 7: While day-2 of total lockdown in Shillong and other areas of East Khasi Hills District witnessed a slight movement after the Deputy Commissioner had permitted essential commodity shops in localities to be opened, a sense of tension prevailed among the citizens if the government plans to extend the lockdown in the district.

Hub News on Friday interacted with a few passersby who was concerned if the lockdown in the district would be extended.

Speaking with M Sangma a resident of Shillong, raised concern on how they will survive if the lockdown continues. Sangma added that whatever decisions the government needs to take to curb the spread of the virus should be done, but keeping in mind the livelihood of the common man.

Gershome Hat said that if the government decides to extend this lockdown they will face several challenges. “Earlier the government made sudden announcement and we weren’t prepared. If this will extend we will not even have food to eat,” said Hat.

While Sangeeta Rana stated that the lockdown was necessary looking at the surge of cases, but felt that the government should bring in odd and even basis like how it was done previously.

A resident of Shillong who wanted to remain anonymous said that looking at the situation and the COVID-19 cases increasing day by day, it is better that lockdown extends. He added that everyday they are seeing that cases are always above 300, so it would be better to extend the lockdown else the situation will worsen.

While Anoop, shopkeeper at Police Bazar said that it has been difficult for people like them being shopkeepers with no work. “It is hard to survive have to pay rent, electricity bills and telephone bills. It has been difficult to survive. But it is necessary for this lockdown due to the surge in cases. The govt should come up with an alternative for the poor people of the state,” said Anoop.