The Karnataka government has extended the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown until June 14, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa. The restrictions will be in force till 6 am on June 14.
Speaking on the extension, Yediyurappa said, "COVID-19 situation is worse, that's why we have extended the lockdown by one week. I am hoping that everything will be fine after one week."
"We had earlier announced stringent restrictions from May 24 to June 7 to contain the spread of Coronavirus. Though the infections have reduced, the spread of the disease is still on."
"It has been decided to extend the restrictions by a week following the recommendation of experts till June 14 morning," Yediyurappa told a press conference.
Deputy CM CN Ashwath Narayan also made an announcement regarding the same. He said the committee has recommended that the ideal positivity rate must be below 5 percent to relax the restrictions and open up. Hence, to prevent further spreading, this decision has been taken.
As per the NewsMinute report, the extended lockdown will continue and no new relaxations have been announced.
CM Yediyurappa on June 2 had hinted that strict measures may continue, as coronavirus is not completely under control in the state and cases are still high in rural areas.
He, however, indicated that relaxation may be given to certain sectors, as he announced that export-oriented businesses will be allowed to operate from June 3, as reported by PTI.
The Karnataka government had earlier extended the statewide lockdown for two weeks from May 24 to June 7.
Follow our LIVE blog for latest updates of the novel coronavirus pandemic
As per the earlier order, people were allowed to make purchases of essentials between 6 am and 10 am. Takeaway was allowed from standalone liquor shops from 6 am to 10 am. Hotels, pubs, restaurants and eateries were ordered to remain shut. However, home deliveries were permitted. Delivery of all items through e-commerce and home delivery was allowed.
As per the earlier order, all places of worship were closed for public. All forms of social, political, religious and other gatherings were also prohibited.
The government had imposed strict restrictions from May 10 when the COVID-19 cases and fatalities did not abate.
Earlier today, CM Yediyurappa also announced that state government is all set to administer more than 60 lakh doses of COVID-19 vaccine this month, thereby completing a total of 2 crore jabs by June 30.
"Our government is set to administer more than 60 lakh doses of vaccine in June. With 1.41 Crore doses administered so far, Karnataka will complete 2 crore jabs by the end of this month. I thank PM Narendra Modi Ji for his continued support towards Karnataka's vaccination drive," CM tweeted.
Follow our full coverage of the coronavirus pandemic here.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
