Maharashtra health minister Rajesh Tope on Tuesday, April 20, said that the state cabinet has requested Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to announce a strict lockdown in Maharashtra from tomorrow, April 21, 8 pm onwards.
“This was the request of all ministers to CM, now it is his decision," Tope said while addressing reporters after a cabinet meeting with the CM.
He also mentioned that the restrictions imposed by the state are not showing enough results. There is a huge burden on health infrastructure in the state. A decision will be announced soon.
Meanwhile, talking about the Centre’s decision to allow vaccination for everyone above 18 years of age, Tope said: “We have not yet received any letter from Centre about vaccination program for those above 18 years. CM has said that vaccination drive will be conducted in full swing and if needed we will take permission from the Centre to purchase vaccines from other countries.”
The minister also stated that the Maharashtra government has decided to cancel class X board exams whereas class XII board exams will be conducted after the COVID-19 situation improves.
Echoing Tope's remarks, state minister Aslam Sheikh said the number of cases is not going down despite imposing strict restrictions adding there is also a shortage of beds and oxygen for the infected patients.
"Looking at the shortage of supply of medical oxygen, Maharashtra is heading towards a complete lockdown. The guidelines regarding it will be announced soon by the CM," Shaikh said addressing media after the cabinet meeting.
Moreover, Maharashtra urban development minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde said the situation is getting worrisome and requested Thackeray to impose the lockdown "to break the chain of transmission."
Maharashtra is currently the worst-hit state from the coronavirus disease pandemic across India.
Share
Tweet
