Hey guys, since I got an approval and also to submit my passport to a nearby VAC, I thought of letting you know what I did that might have led to approval.
I applied from US on June 22 and gave biometrics on July 21st. I sent a letter to expedite the processing of my application on August 24 (I sent email to
IRCC.COVID-TravelExemptions-Exemptionsdevoyage-COVID.IRCC@cic.gc.ca and also webform). I didn't see any changes in my application status. So, I again sent a letter for expedition on September 10th (both email and webform). This time, in addition to the letter, I explained how miserable my current situation is to them and within few days, I got approval. Also, I saw another approval received by a Postdoc who submitted his application in July 18th (or so) in the USA in another thread. So, it might not hurt if you send multiple requests for expedition. Good luck.