By Maria Weldali
While many nations around the world have been wondering whether the novel coronavirus is just a lie, a sinister plan or a short-term crisis in quest of some explanation or estimation to understand the current reality, Jordan has responded promptly to contain the global pandemic that gripped people's consciousness. A nationwide curfew has filled the Kingdom with heavy silence that has been hung in the air until further notice.
The moment global alarms sounded over the fast spreading virus.The Jordanian government through engaging in truth telling has not taken back seat to the tiny attacker.On the contrary, it has implemented a transparent precautionary approach, although the choices were fraught with challenges.
The Kingdom's land, air and sea borders have been sealed.Vehicle traffic has been suspended, all educational institutions, commercial complexes as well as enterprises and tourist sites have been closed, coupled with the postponement and cancellation of major events and shows.
The last airplanes carrying travelers entered Jordan's airspace on March 16. Almost 5,000 passengers were immediately quarantined in the Kingdom's high-end hotels and resorts. Sea view balconies, periodic medical check-ups, luxurious sterilized accommodations and food packages on offer range from fresh fruits, beverages, sweets and main dishes were offered to the quarantined guests, as part of Jordan's efforts in making sure attention to details is a priority.
A nationwide curfew has filled the Kingdom with heavy silence that has been hung in the air until further notice.
As for individuals found on the roads after announcing the curfew at 6:00 p.m. across Jordan's 12 governorates via resounding sirens.They are subjected to a fine of no less than JD100 and imprisonment for a period no more than one year for breaching the anti-coronavirus measures.These restricted regulations ban the movement of all people except those with movement permits due to working in sectors deemed critical.
Jordan had a full-on lockdown three times, during which all permitted establishments and institutions were closed. No one was allowed to go out for any reason, excluding health professionals and certain officials, aiming at enabling epidemiological investigation teams to investigate virus-related cases efficiently and effectively.
In the depth of silence that has stretched out across the streets.The Jordanian Armed Forces patrols the country's highways and neighborhoods and sets up entry and exit check points between and inside the Kingdom's 12 governorates
In the depth of silence that has stretched out across the streets.The Jordanian Armed Forces patrols the country's highways and neighborhoods and sets up entry and exit check points between and inside the Kingdom's 12 governorates. This is to ensure that the movement is restricted to those with permits and any vehicle in violation of the government's measures is seized for a period of one month.
During the approved hours, individuals aged between 16 and 60, excluding those with underlining health conditions are only allowed to go to neighbourhood grocery stores and pharmacies to buy their daily needs. Even as demand has sparked, authorities have reassured that Jordan's reserves of food and essential commodities remain sufficient, projecting a sense of relief amid the pandemic.
The Middle Eastern Kingdom has announced its first case on March 13 after a Jordanian citizen tested positive for the virus. Since then, the numbers have increased constantly, but yet slowly.
Looking at the great picture while understanding what is happening and what should be done. A daily press briefing at the National Center for Security and Crisis Management is held to cover all virus-related updates and much of it is dominated by the Minister of State for Media Affairs Amjad Adaileh and the Minister of Health Saad Jaber.
Jordan's Media Affairs Minister during a televised statement called on Jordanians and people living in the Kingdom to adjust to "the new lifestyle" of curfew until the coronavirus is domestically contained. The level of public adherence has been significant. Although violations have been registered due to the varying levels of responsibility among people.
Jordan's Media Affairs Minister during a televised statement called on Jordanians and people living in the Kingdom to adjust to "the new lifestyle" of curfew until the coronavirus is domestically contained.
During the comprehensive curfew, both ministers recorded their usual statements at home, which has showed Jordan's seriousness and commitment to contain the current crisis.This led to establishing new waves of patriotism amongst Jordanians and people living there.
Confined to their homes, people did not forget to put a smile on each other's faces. Hundreds of authorized initiatives as well as Jordan's Army have distributed food parcels. Jordanian comedians have provided the public with light-hearted content in these unprecedented times.
Jordan has undoubtedly been running a marathon with the invisible outsider. It has proved that it can go all the distance. With all words, Jordan is in this for the long run.
Through these new waves of patriotism, educators are keen to maintain quality education via televised lessons and virtual teaching platforms. Impoverished families show great levels of adherence due to having access to social security programs. Employees stay safe at their homes, fully confident that their jobs and wages are assured.
Jordan has undoubtedly been running a marathon with the invisible outsider. It has proved that it can go all the distance. With all words, Jordan is in this for the long run.
Maria Weldali is a Jordanian writer and journalist that is interested in issues related to the Middle Eastern affairs, youth advocacy and entrepreneurship.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of Al Bawaba News
