Muscat: The lockdown announced by the Supreme Committee of the Dhofar region and Masirah has been welcomed by citizens and residents alike. The Supreme Commitee dealing with COVID-19 reviewed epidemiological data on the Dhofar Governorate and the state of Masirah and decided to continue with the lockdown in the two regions.
Expressing concern over this matter, the Committee called on citizens and expatriates residing in Oman to exercise utmost caution and follow all precautionary measures to bring down the number of cases and related deaths.
Fahad Bani Urba, a resident of Muscat, says this is a welcome measure. “Every effort is being made by the Supreme Committee and the Ministry of Health to bring the cases in Oman under control. We have to value their intent and efforts and the least we could do is to abide by the guidelines set by them.”
The ongoing monsoon season is a major attraction in Salalah, which during normal times is a popular spot for residents to visit. With the lockdown, this number will be controlled, helping in the efforts to bring down the number of positive cases as well.
Ghanim Mahad Ali, who is a tour guide in Salalah is totally in agreement of the lockdown. “The lockdown will surely bring the number of cases under control. During lockdown, there is so much more surveillance by the authorities that keep people within the confines of their homes. We must do our best to help the authorities who have been relentlessly working to bring this pandemic under control.” Ghanim says.
Omar Jabri, working with Sheraton Oman, and a keen observer of hospitality trends, also says that this is the way to bring down the cases. “All of us are in the same boat in this regard. If it has to be done this way, it has to be. Our health matters more than anything. Once normalcy comes back, we can have our share of fun. Right now, it is time to appreciate and adhere to the rules laid down by the competent authorities. I also hope that the lockdown is very, very strict.”
Ismail Ibrahim, who runs a coffee shop in the capital Muscat, says that this move is indeed very welcome. “My family, friends and everyone that I know of, are all totally in favour of this lockdown. We have downloaded the Tarassud + app, and keenly follow the updates through the app, and also through the media. The efforts undertaken by the authorities to give us timely updates and advice need to be appreciated and the least we can all do to help them in their effort is to adhere to their advice.”
