Karnataka govt extends lockdown till June 7

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government on Friday extended the lockdown till June 7 in the wake of surge in Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking to newsmen here, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the lockdown was further extended for 14 days.

He said that the decision was based on experts' advice. The existing restrictions will continue for another two weeks.

Stating that it will be implemented strictly and unnecessary movement will not be tolerated, he said that the guidelines will be as it was at present.

"These decisions were taken keeping the interest of citizens in mind. I request people to cooperate. The Covid-19 is spreading to villages and deaths are going up," Yediyurappa said.

The announcement came three days before the current lockdown is scheduled to end on May 24.

"Till 6 am on June 7, the stringent measures currently in force will continue," Yediyurappa said after chairing a meeting with ministers and officials.

According to him, the existing lockdown had yielded results, prompting the government to extend it by two more weeks. Stringent measures were imposed across the state till May 24 and because people cooperated with the government, cases are coming under control with each passing day," he said.

We have seen in Bengaluru and other cities, people coming out even at 10 am. This is causing a lot of problems. The police have been asked to check this. People should get back home at 9.45 am," Yediyurappa said.

Expressing concern over mucormycosis or the 'black fungus' infection, he said that the government has decided to provide free treatment for this at state-run district hospitals. "This is to help people who can't afford treatment," Yediyurappa said.

Stating that people will be allowed to purchase essential commodities from morning 0600 am to 0945 am only.

There will be no vehicle movement and only emergency people will be allowed including those who are going for the vaccination. (UNI)