#TnlLockdownSeries: Our Reader Reveals What Life In New York Looks Like RN!

T+L reader Gurleen Kaur loves to travel the world, but with the lockdown in place, she is cooped up at her home in New York City – a city usually bustling with life. In a never-seen-before avatar, she shows us the quieter side of the city, and how the Big Apple is dealing with the crisis. By Bayar Jain

1. When did you move to New York City?

I’ve lived in New York City for more than 30 years.

2. What were your first thoughts when the lockdown was put in motion?

When the lockdown was first put in place, I felt a little scared. We have never been through something like this before, and the unknown can be scary. But I knew it was essential to save lives by staying indoors, so I found some comfort in that.

3. Tell us about the ground reality that you are witnessing there during the lockdown. Are there any challenges that you are facing?

The reality of it all is scary. No one is allowed to see each other. Since the lockdown, I’ve seen my parents only once in five weeks, that too while they sat in their car with face masks and gloves on. I am always worried about their health and safety, and I keep praying they don’t get COVID-19. Since I live close to NYU Hospital, I hear sirens all the time and wonder if someone is being rushed to the hospital due to the virus and whether they are going to make it out alive. I only leave the house to go to the pharmacy, the grocery store or to walk my dog.

4. What regulations have been implemented by the government there?

 

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A post shared by Gurleen ???? (@traveleen_gurl) on Mar 26, 2020 at 2:25pm PDT

We are not allowed to go out unless we need to go to the pharmacy or grocery store. We are allowed to walk our dogs, and people are allowed to go out for a little bit to exercise. However, mostly everyone is staying at home. You hardly see anyone outside. Two days ago, we were told it is mandatory for everyone to wear masks while going outside.

5. Are people allowed to step outdoors at a certain time?

 

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A post shared by Gurleen ???? (@traveleen_gurl) on Apr 19, 2020 at 4:54pm PDT

In New York City, we are not on total lockdown. Even then, in a city of eight million people, it is shocking to see how empty the streets are. Around 95 per cent of the people are staying indoors, which goes to show you that people are listening. We understand the importance of staying home to save lives.

6. How is the government handling the pandemic?

I think the government is doing the best they can with what they have to work with. All the restrictions that the government has put in place to help flatten the curve seem to be working.

7. Where would you like to travel to once this situation settles down?

I would love to go back to India and visit my family.

Related: #TnlLockdownSeries: Our Reader Talks About Life In An Apple Orchard During Lockdown

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