Truckers protest: Advisory issued for Indians in Canada over anti-vaccine agitation

The High Commission of India in Ottawa on Tuesday issued an advisory for Indian residents residing in Canada and for individuals who are planning to journey to the North American nation to ‘train a excessive diploma of warning’ and ‘stay alert’ attributable to protests by truckers in Ottawa and different cities over Covid-19 vaccine mandates.

“The Canadian capital city of Ottawa and several other major cities, including Toronto, are currently witnessing protests with road blockages, demonstrations, large gatherings and general strikes. This has led to disruptions to traffic, transportation and shortages of essential items including food and water,” the High Commission mentioned within the advisory.It acknowledged {that a} state of emergency has been declared for Ottawa owing to the prevailing scenario.READ: Anti-vaccine protest in Canada spurs outrage”The impact on traffic and services is likely to continue and local authorities in other major cities of Canada may also impose curfews or other restrictions at short notice,” the advisory mentioned.The High Commission mentioned, “In view of the ongoing situation, Indian citizens in Canada and those planning to visit Canada are hereby advised to – Exercise a high degree of caution and remain alert, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, such as downtown Ottawa, follow the instructions of local authorities, including curfews, and monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations and the evolving situation.”A particular emergency helpline (+1) 6137443761 has been arrange on the High Commission in Ottawa to offer help and steering to Indian residents in “distress due to the ongoing disturbances in Canada”.”Indian citizens in Canada are also encouraged to register with the High Commission of India in Ottawa or Consulates of India in Toronto and Vancouver through their websites, or the MADAD portal madad.gov.in. Registration would enable the High Commission and the Consulates to better connect with Indian citizens in Canada in the event of an emergency,” the High Commission additional mentioned.The “Freedom Convoy” began as a motion in opposition to a Canadian vaccine requirement for cross-border truckers, however has changed into a rallying level in opposition to public well being measures and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s authorities.Thousands of protesters descended in Ottawa once more on the weekend, becoming a member of 100 who remained since final weekend. Residents of Ottawa are livid on the nonstop blaring of horns, visitors disruption and harassment and concern no finish is in sight after the police chief known as it a “siege” that he couldn’t handle.Protesters have mentioned they gained’t go away till all mandates and Covid-19 restrictions are gone. They are additionally calling for the removing of Trudeau’s authorities, although it’s answerable for just a few of the measures, most of which have been put in place by provincial governments.ALSO READ: Canadian PM Trudeau, household moved to ‘secret location’ as anti-vaccine protest flares up: ReportALSO READ: Fact Check: ‘The Simpsons’ had not predicted Canadian PM Trudeau fleeing after truckers’ protestWATCH: Canada Truckers Protest: Why Is Ottawa In A State Of Emergency?