No lockdown but strong curbs, says Maharashtra govt

The Maharashtra government on Wednesday said that 'complete lockdown' wasn't needed now, but laid emphasis on strong measures to prevent crowding. After the Wednesday morning meeting with senior officials, the state government decided against imposing complete lockdown.

Health minister Rajesh Tope said: "We don't want to use the word lockdown for now; we will go for some stronger measures to prevent crowding. If we have to stop the virus then we have to contain it."

Sources said the state government was considering a 'mini-lockdown', where curfew or more curbs would be imposed during weekends. The administration could also restrict crowding by closing parks, beaches and other public places during weekends. Districts and municipal corporations could be asked to impose restrictions in their jurisdiction.


Mumbai could see more restrictions as on Wednesday it reported more than 15,000 fresh cases. City's municipal commissioner IS Chahal has already said that if daily cases cross the 20,000-mark, Mumbai could face a lockdown. Maharashtra on Wednesday reported 26,538 fresh cases and eight fatalities.

State's higher and technical education minister Uday Samant said that all colleges and varsities would remain shut till February 15.