May Extend Covid Restrictions By 15 Days: Maharashtra Minister

Maharashtra has over 6.7 lakh active coronavirus cases - more than Uttar Pradesh (3.06 lakh) and Karnataka (3.01 lakh) combined

Maharashtra is likely to extend existing Covid-related restrictions for 15 days, state Health Minister Rajesh Tope was quoted by news agency PTI on Wednesday. The proposal was made at a cabinet meeting earlier today, but the final decision will be made by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Last week the state - the worst hit by the pandemic - announced a series of measures to combat the deadly spike in cases. These measures, which included limiting attendance at non-essential private and government offices, and use of public transport - were to stay till 7 am on May 1. Restrictions were also imposed on weddings and social events, and shops selling groceries, dairy products and vegetables were allowed to open for only four hours - 7 am to 11 am per day. Maharashtra has over 6.7 lakh active coronavirus cases - more than Uttar Pradesh (3.06 lakh) and Karnataka (3.01 lakh) combined - and over 66,000 deaths have been recorded so far.