Maharashtra Relief Rehabilitation Minister Vijay Wadettiwar on Monday, April 19, said that the state government is considering imposing a complete lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19.
While speaking at a press conference in Mumbai, he stated that Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray will take a decision and make an announcement in the next two days.
This comes hours after a six-day lockdown was declared in Delhi as the COVID-19 situation in the state is deteriorating.
He also said that the State officials will study how Delhi is planning to execute a six-day lockdown.
Vijay Wadettiwar said that at present a 15-day curfew has been imposed in Maharashtra. The curfew will be in force till May 1. Moreover, the state government has allowed the continuation of essential and necessary services to avoid inconvenience. But despite the implementation of section 144 in the state, the people do not seem to be following the COVID-related rules. Markets, public places are crowded. People are going out in their private vehicles which are causing traffic. Therefore, the response to the mini-lockdown is poor. Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases are increasing.
“Those initially opposing the strict restrictions, are now in the favour of a complete lockdown in the state. The second wave of coronavirus has hit the state adversely. While this wave is expected to be mild, it has come in a very intense form. The government's priority will be to stem the tide and save lives. The government is also setting up the necessary health facilities for this,” said Vijay Wadettiwar.
“We have informed CM that traders, common people and political parties are in favour of lockdown. In next 1-2 days the decision about strict lockdown is expected,” the minister added.
This statement comes a day after Maharashtra on Sunday, April 18, recorded a single-day highest jump ever since the pandemic began.
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