Tibet holds scientific spirit in anti-COVID battle

Kathmandu, 20 August  2022 Saturday/For two years, the world was almost in a standstill a battle against the spread of COVID-19. When the countries finally managed to stay strong and tried to revive the global health and economy, the virus surfaced once again in different geographies.

Among many, the COVID-19 outbreak was noticed in early August in China’s Tibetan Autonomous Region, which was virus free so far. However, Tibet instantly took steps towards the control and proactively issued guidelines on preventive measures.

Right after a cluster of 18 cases were detected in the city, officials announced lockdowns in parts of the Tibetan capital Lhasa and other cities like Shigatse to prevent the spread of the virus. It also closed the historical and iconic Potala Palace, a major attraction for domestic and foreign tourists.

In the immediate announcement, for three days, there was cancellation of large-scale gatherings and events, limitation on travels and closure of leisure facilities.

However, considering the situation, the authorities extended the anti-virus operation and imposed partial lockdown, which was a timely decision indeed. Lockdown has been termed as the most effective step in handling this pandemic worldwide.

With the examples from China mainland, and other cities of the world, it has been realized that such measures are significant to further prevent hidden transmission, eliminate hidden risks, and effectively protect the lives and health of the people.

In accordance with the general strategy of “external defense input, internal defense rebound” and the general policy of dynamic zero clearing, the government of the Tibet Autonomous Region was quick to take control of the situation. It gave high attention, responded quickly and compacted responsibilities the prevention and control of the epidemic.

In this process, it adopted the anti-COVID mechanisms scientifically, accurately, efficiently and solidly, which is impressive and could be a lesson for others as well.

The two major steps that were taken are, first, according to the virus strains, determining the overseas import of the virus. With this, it was revealed that this virus strain had not appeared before in China.

Secondly, it was decisive to adopt the city wide silent disinfection and sterilization method to ensure that the re-spread of the virus doesn’t taken place. This was done in a quick and timely manner.

Besides, the government also responded quickly on the humanitarian front by grasping the living conditions of people in difficulty and addressing their needs. With the principle of putting the people first and putting life first, it acted to eliminate community cases of the virus.

These three measures were the major actions taken by the authorities, which reflected a huge success and an exemplary action.

In Tibet, there have been 229 confirmed cases of COVID-19 so far. The fight against the pandemic has been possible not just by internal efforts, but many hands came forward to join the noble mission.

As per the official reports, Tibetan people received support from all directions, including 204 volunteers of Shandong,300 volunteers of Chongqing,172 volunteers of Guangdong,1984 volunteers of Jiangsu,40 volunteers of Chengdu and 36 volunteers of Fusing and so on.

Though the westerners often portray divisions and problems between the mainland China and TAR in their narratives, this is a good example on how the battle could be won together with unity and cooperation. Both mainland and TAR are in the same page to save lives and to ensure health safety to people.

In this fight, China’s adherence to its zero-Covid policy has worked as a boon. People are subject to continuous testing while the restrictions have been tightened, which are crucial in the drive.

Amid the rumors that tourists are stranded in the region, the authorities have shared that the airport in Lhasa has remained open, and the tourists are getting back as per own schedule.

Tibet had not found any cases of COVID-19 for over two and a half years until August first week, which shows its strong preventive measure in this fight. The authorities are hopeful that the grim situation would be over soon even now with the strong commitment and dedication.

Besides the strong internal management, it had shown a kind gesture to Nepal too at the time of need, and sent necessary medical equipment and supplies to help Nepal fight against the battle. Such consignments were sent several times as a means of friendship, which is really appreciative.

To be noted, COVID cases have increased in Nepal lately, with around 1,000 infections every day. Since the number is getting higher, it is important for Nepal to uphold the scientific spirit and to learn the lessons from other places, including from the neighboring Tibet. China News.com