BackPandemic panic in Middle East, Keralites desperate to return home
It is expected that as many as 2.5 lakh to 5 lakh NRKs may return to Kerala, amid coronavirus outbreak across the worldThe total reported cases of coronavirus in Kerala stands at 458
PremiumKerala has a high number of expatriates working around the world with the highest in the Middle East. It is expected that as many as 2.5 lakh to 5 lakh Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) may return to Kerala, amid coronavirus outbreak across the world.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had earlier told ANI that the state is fully prepared to receive its NRK population. "It is quite natural for our brothers and sisters to want to return home, during these difficult times. We understand their sentiments, which is why I have repeatedly requested the Prime Minister to ensure their safe passage to Kerala. Whatever is required to accommodate their needs are being arranged for, buildings have been identified, sanitized and prepared to serve as isolation wards," he said.
Arrangements for Keralites returning home amid Covid-19 outbreak
The Chief Minister had said that state government has made all arrangements, including Covid-19 hospitals in all districts and 2,50,000 additional beds, to meet any needs which could arise when the ex-pat population returns to Kerala. Those arriving will be screened. While those with no Covid-19 symptoms will be allowed to go for home isolation, others will be quarantined under the present medical guidelines.
Website for NRI Keralites
Just 24 hours after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the opening of a website for online registration of Non-Resident Keralites (NRK), who wish to return from abroad, the site crashed due to high traffic of registrations. Registration has already crossed over one lakh on the website, www.norkaroots.org, of the state-run Norka-Roots. "The site may be down as many Keralites from across the world are trying to register online to return back. Registration has crossed more than one lakh and official figures will be given by Kerala Chief Minister at his press conference," said a Norka Roots official.
The site is now restored and back online.
About 10% of Kerala's 33 million population lives outside the state, primarily abroad
Coronavirus cases in Kerala
Meanwhile, the total reported cases of coronavirus in Kerala stands at 458. Among the total people infected as on date, 338 have recovered and 4 have died. Of the total 458 cases reported in the state. Kasargod had the highest number of Covid-19 cases at 170 confirmed infections.
-With agency inputs
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!
