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Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Chu Ngoc Anh speaks a the meeting on April 28. Photo: VTC News

Speaking at a meeting on April 28, Anh said the complex development of the pandemic requires the entire political system to carry forward solidarity and take drastic actions against the disease.

The work must be done in parallel with spurring economic growth, anticipating investment opportunities and fulfilling growth targets set for the city this year, as well as political tasks, the municipal leader stressed.

The most important task in May is ensuring the success of the upcoming elections of deputies to the 15^th National Assembly, and all-level People’s Councils for 2021-2026, he said.

In that spirit, he assigned the city Department of Health, steering committees for COVID-19 prevention and control in districts and towns, and relevant agencies to seriously follow instructions of the Prime Minister, the city Party Committee and the Chairman.

Ensuring safety during holidays

People walk around the pedestrian zone surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi. Photo: VNA

To ensure security, order and environmental hygiene during the National Reunification Day (April 30) and May Day holidays, and the upcoming elections, Anh urged the Department of Transport to step up inspections and mobilise forces at major sites in the city.

Local authorities decided on April 28 to halt festivals, close walking street areas, and limit unnecessary large gatherings in the capital city over coronavirus fears, Viet Nam News reported.

The move came as Hanoi has passed 71 days without new community transmissions, but concerns of new outbreaks remain high given the lax attitude of the public with COVID-19 prevention and control measures, imported risks from illegal entries as neighbouring countries are suffering a serious wave of infections, and the upcoming four-day public holidays.

When cases are detected, the authorities should immediately apply measures to localise the outbreak and conduct tracing and quarantine in order to prevent the spread. However, the city Party Committee has also noted the imposition of lockdown and quarantine measures must not be too excessive, to avoid causing adverse impacts on production, business activities, and social life.

Earlier, the capital city has also decided to cancel firework displays for the celebrations of the reunification day. HCM City, Da Nang, and other localities have also announced cancellations of fireworks and other major festivities. /.

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