The Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope said that there would not be a lockdown in the state but some restrictions will be reimposed to curb the increasing number of COVID-19 cases. He also said that strict measures will be taken to ensure that people follow the pandemic rules.
While speaking to reporters, Tope said, "There has been no decision yet on introduction of another round of lockdown in the state.”
"In fact, there will be no lockdown but some strict restrictions will be introduced for a period to keep a check on the increasing number of COVID-19 cases," Tope added.
The minister said that Maharashtra accounts for the highest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths among the states in the country. Meanwhile, people have become “casual” in their attitude towards wearing masks and maintaining social distancing. This is dangerous, considering the possibility of another wave by December-end. The unlocking process was started after people demanded to ease curbs, but now it seems citizens are not following preventive measures, Tope said.
"We appeal to people to regularly use a mask and strictly following other measures of sanitisation," said the health minister.
If people are not going to follow the rules laid down by the state, then there will be strict restrictions and everybody will have to abide by them. "There are reports of people crowding public and market places without face masks."
The state government has also ramped up daily tests to help break the chain of spread. Tope assured that citizens don't need to be afraid of another lockdown but there will be some restrictions for sure. Though people will have to remain careful for the next few months and he did not reveal the kind of restrictions that the state will be imposing in the coming days.
Tope while elaborating on the issue, only said, "We will hold a meeting with the chief minister and deputy CM to implement the decision accordingly. We have to learn from what is happening around the world and in the country. We are prepared to tackle the surge in cases.”
Referring to reports of vaccination, the minister stated that the government is preparing a database of personnel involved in health services, security and senior citizens who will get priority in COVID-19 vaccination. However, there is no clarity as to when they will be available for masses.
Moreover, the Maharashtra government has already issued strict travel norms for visitors from four states, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Goa and Delhi. The number of coronavirus cases has spiked many folds in these states.
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