The coronavirus has impacted many businesses worldwide. The novel virus which originated in China has now spread to 160 countries while 180 positive cases and four deaths in India alone. Businesses have been forced to resort to cost-cutting measures and put a halt on expansions. Some are even asking the government to step in. A clutch of capitalists and entrepreneurs have appealed to the Prime Minister’s Office to take decisive motion and “impose Section 144” across cities this week.
Abhiraj Singh Bhal, the founder of Urban Company, previously known as UrbanClap, recently through social media platform Twitter, shared an in-depth Powerpoint presentation highlighting the differences between governments around the world who either acted “swiftly” or “waited and watched”.
The presentation added, “The virus does not discriminate on the basis of nationality – early, strong and decisive action is key to containment. Impose Section 144 and strict lockdown (citizens stay at home) across major cities for two weeks starting March 20, 2020.
“While containment efforts should continue, imposing a lockdown and Section 144 now, vs 30 days later, might reduce deaths by 5x, saving nearly 10,000 lives,” it added.
The 10-slide presentation has been created and signed by over 50 entrepreneurs, including Kunal Bahl of Snapdeal, Phanindra Sama of RedBus and Rohan Verzma of MapMyIndia.
The presentation appreciated India’s good start with containment efforts, which includes the closing of public places like theaters and schools. It also acknowledged the government’s efforts in inspiring individuals to work from home and socially distance themselves.
Along with the appreciation, the presentation also warned that there might be a need to impose a second lockdown. It urged the central government to make sure the provision of necessities like cereals, medicines, and cash while guaranteeing the availability of public transport.
As fears over the rampant unfold of the infectious sickness develop and cities and public areas go into lockdown, issues have been raised over the impression of the novel coronavirus on the Indian financial system.
Sandeep is a journalism and mass communication graduate with a keen interest in politics and business. He is a part of Research & Content team at HrNxt.com.