The Maharashtra government extended till May 15 the existing lockdown-like restrictions enforced to stem the spread of Covid-19 in the state.
An order issued by chief secretary Sitaram Kunte said the decision to extend the restrictions has been taken as the state continued to be threatened with the spread of Covid-19. It was imperative to continue the emergency measures to prevent and contain the spread of the virus, he said.
The sweeping curbs on movement of people and a host of other activities, imposed early this month, were to continue till 7 am on May 1. The restrictions were further tightened on April 14 and then last week, brining more activities under their ambit.
Thursday’s lockdown notification was a mere formality since Maharashtra health minister Rajesh Tope, a few days back, had said that the state cabinet had issued orders for an extension of the lockdown. ET had reported that the current lockdown would continue in the state till June.
Meanwhile, the Bombay High Court during a hearing on the Covid situation, suggested to the state government to go for a ‘15-day complete lockdown’.
The HC bench, led by chief justice Dipankar Datta, said, “Please advise your government, if for 15 days there can be a complete lockdown. No one comes out unless absolutely crucial.” The court added, “If people don’t follow restrictions, if they don’t follow guidelines, then how will it work? Are they preparing for a third wave?
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