Mizoram, August 11: Rapid antigen tests have been made compulsory for all drivers and passengers crossing the Vairengte Checkgate which marks the border between Assam and Mizoram from 10th August.

Dr H. Lalthlangliana, Deputy Commissioner of the Kolasib district in Mizoram announced that a COVID screening system has been set up at the Checkgate to monitor the Rapid Antigen tests of the passengers entering the state.

With the state crossing 600 active cases, this measure has been taken as a preventive measure to contain the spread of Covid-19.

The Deputy Commissioner visited the point and met the duty personnel and the medical team. He briefed them about the precautions that are to be taken during the process of screening and tests.

The Kolasib DC was informed by Dr Lalhimpuia and the Chief Medical Officer, Kolasib that additional people had been appointed to take swab samples at the screening point. The road to Bairabi-Saphai will remain closed until further notice.

The DC further declared that from Monday all drivers and passengers will have to take the test and they will be allowed to proceed with their journey only if the test result is negative. This applies to both civil and army personnel. Once tested negative, a sticker or banner will be put up on the vehicle to indicate the same. In case the test result is positive, the owner of the vehicle/driver/passenger will be detained.

The vehicle will be sanitised and arrangements will be made to further transport it. Proper care of the Covid-19 patients will be taken by the Medical Officer in Charge of Vairengte. The people who test negative will be required to follow a 14-hour quarantine mandate too.