Agra/Mathura, April 2 Panic-stricken Shri Krishna shrines in Mathura, Vrindavan, Goverdhan and Barsana wore a deserted look on Thursday, as arrival of pilgrims has come to a halt. Most temples remain closed but the ritualistic pujas continue.
The effect of Covid-19 fear was evident on Ram Navmi celebrations as festivities were confined to homes and temples. Devi temples had few faithfuls as the police did not allow movement by setting up barricades on roads and beefing up security arrangements in the Taj city in the aftermath of Nizammuddin episode.
Police officials indicated that a search was still on for those who had attended the congregation at Nizammuddin. Around a 100 are confined to a local resort for quarantine. District authorities have asked all those who have returned from abroad, after March 12, to report for check up. After a doctor reported positive for coronavirus on Wednesday, Agra's tally has gone up to 12.
Meanwhile, police teams checked up hotels to take a count on foreigners still held up in the city, and to provide them assistance. Arrangements are being made in Kendriya Hindi Sansthan to facilitate return of foreign students. More than 75 students from over 25 countries including China are learning Hindi at the KHS.
District officials on Thursday further streamlined the supply of essentials in the city after a barrage of complaints. Door step delivery has helped ease the situation in the colonies.
( With inputs from IANS )