Coronavirus Pandemic: More than 2500 residents of Dharavi Slums have been home quarantined

Coronavirus outbreak has spread to Mumbai slums and over the last few weeks, cases were identified in Mumbai's slum pockets. As per recent development, two new cases were identified in Dharavi on Saturday, increasing the total count in the locality to five. As per reports, there was no travel history of both the patients and state health ministry has confirmed the same.

The new cases have been identified in Dr Baliga Nagar and Mukund Nagar, where a 30-year-old woman and a 48-year-man tested positive for coronavirus. Both cases have no relation whatsoever and are currently being treated at a hospital in Mumbai. So far, one death has been reported from the area and the spread in these slum pockets is alarming. 

Earlier this week, three more cases were identified, which included a 56-year-old garment shop owner from Dr Baliga Nagar. Upon testing positive, he was taken to the hospital but unfortunately died during the treatment. Other cases were a 35-year-old surgeon from Dharavi and a 56-year-old municipal sweeper, who works in Dharavi, but is a resident of Worli. 

Keeping the seriousness in mind, police and BMC officials have sealed Dr Baliga Nagar which has eight buildings with 308 flats and 91 shops. With two cases from the area, police have home quarantined a total of 2500 residents, and it is reported that all symptomatic people are being tested for the virus. Essentials are being provided to the resident as per their needs. 

Assistant Municipal Commissioner of Dharavi and Mahim area further said that a health camp has been organised to collect test samples which will be sent to the labs later. The contacts of these patients are being tested and have been shifted to a sports complex in Dharavi for safety concerns. 

Mumbai Live spoke to some doctors to understand the situation, where many said that the concept of social distancing was impossible in slums, owing to the infrastructural problems. The state government and BMC officials are trying the best to contain the virus and curb the spread. Cooperation from the citizens is expected at all times.