Fear of Third Wave: High Intensity Screening & Testing at Dakshina Kannada-Kerala Border

Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner K.V. Rajendra has informed that the district administration will intensify screening and testing of travellers from Kerala to the district in view of the enhanced COVID-19 threat. Kerala reports about 8% test positivity rate and hence there was a need to enhance surveillance in the border areas.

The DC said the administration faces challenge in screening and testing as people in Kasargod and Dakshina Kannada districts share close bond while about 40% people in Kasargod district depend on DK for their routine activities. The borders are too porous thereby intensifying the challenge. A list of regular travellers would be prepared and periodical testing/ checking would be conducted. Interstate bus services would continue for now; but bus crew have to ensure passengers possess RTPCR negative certificate. As far as international travellers arriving the district, the DC said RTPCR negative certificate was mandatory while boarding the flight itself. Passengers from red-list countries would be tested again on their arrival at Mangalore International Airport and irrespective of negative report, they would have to undergo a week’s home quarantine, the DC said.