Maharashtra’s lockdown-like restrictions to contain the spread of coronavirus will remain in place for the for the rest of the month, the state government said in its latest order.
Earlier the lockdown was imposed until May 15. As per the standard operating procedures, private offices, non-essential shops and establishments will continue to remain completely shut. The announcement comes hours after a meeting of state’s cabinet ministers.
“Milk collection, transport and processing may be allowed without restrictions though its retail sale be allowed subject to restrictions imposed on shops dealing with essential items or through home delivery,” the government order said.
“If the carriers are originating from outside Maharashtra, they will be allowed with a negative RT-PCR test report issued within 48 hours before the time of entry into the state and will be valid for seven days,” the order said.
The local disaster management authority (DMA) has been asked to ensure Covid-appropriate behaviour at rural markets and has been authorized to shut down or impose more restrictions on shops that do not comply.
“Personnel engaged in Airport and Port services and needed for movement of cargo related to medicines or equipment needed for Covid management will be allowed to travel in local, mono and metro services,” read the order.
Maharashtra, worst affected state by the pandemic, reported 46,781 new cases and 816 deaths on Wednesday. Up to 58,805 patients were discharged in the last 24 hours.