Covid-19 takes its toll on the concept of NCR

New Delhi: Earlier it was Uttar Pradesh and Haryana and now it’s Delhi, which has decided to seal its inter-state borders till June 8. The decision has sent the entire National Capital Region (NCR) in a tizzy. Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has now sought public suggestions on whether Delhi should open its borders after June 8. “If we open our borders, people from across the country would come to the Capital for treatment. Over the last five years, we have invested a lot in our healthcare system. This is why when healthcare systems are collapsing in many cities, in Delhi you are assured of a bed even when cases are increasing,” said the CM.

Kejriwal announced sealing of borders barring people involved in essential services. The decision has put a question mark on NCR — a planning concept which has over the years amalgamated districts as far as Bhiwani-Mahendragarh in Haryana, Meerut in UP and Bharatpur in Rajasthan. This concept involved free inter-state traffic movement and even a consolidated transport plan.

Kejriwal said there were suggestions that even if borders were opened Delhi could restrict treatment only for Delhiites. “But how can we do this? Please show me the way with your suggestions,” he said while introducing a dedicated phone line, email address and Whatsapp number for public opinion.


The Delhi government issued detailed guidelines on opening up. No shopping malls, religious places of worship, educational institutions, gymnasia or swimming pools will open. While removing restrictions on pillion riders and number of people in a car, Delhi has decided against opening air-conditioned shopping malls — a relaxation allowed under the home ministry guidelines. All markets, barber shops, salons and industrial areas would be open.