Massive jams as Haryana-Delhi borders sealed to curb spread of COVID-19

Chandigarh: Massive traffic jams were witnessed on the borders of Haryana and the national capital on Friday as the former restricted the entry of motorists, except essential service providers and e-movement pass holders, owing to a spike in coronavirus cases.

Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij blamed Delhi for a spike in patients owing to the free movement of people.

He said the cases reported in districts (Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonepat and Jhajjar) that are located in the National Capital Region have been spiking despite certain restrictions.

"Only those will be allowed to commute between Haryana and Delhi who have e-movement passes. Essential service providers are exempted from ban," Vij told the media.

Vij has written to the Home Secretary to seal the borders again.

Officials said even the link roads between the two states have been sealed to restrict movements. The government's order to seal all the borders with Delhi was issued late Thursday night.

"Traffic restrictions have been strictly imposed on Gurgaon-Delhi borders in view of Covid-19," Gurugram Police informed in a tweet.

"Only essential services and movement pass holders will be allowed as per MHA guidelines and Delhi HC (High Court) orders."

A large number of commuters were seen waiting at the border in Faridabad and Sonepat districts as the police checked and allowed only essential service providers and people with e-passes.

Haryana by Friday afternoon reported 36 new cases of coronavirus, taking the state's tally to 1,540.

On Thursday, the state witnessed the highest spike recording 123 cases. Out of 123 fresh cases, 74.8 per cent of cases came from Gurugram (68). Faridabad and Sonepat saw 18 and six cases respectively.