On Monday afternoon, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa briefed the media about the extension of the lockdown and issued fresh guidelines for the fourth phase of the lockdown that will be in place up to the 31st of May.
On Sunday, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs announced the extension of the nationwide lockdown up to 31st of May with some relaxations. Although, the majority of the restriction of the third phase is supposed to continue in the fourth phase. However, the central government has reportedly given a free hand to the state government to decide the lockdown guidelines of their respective states.
While Maharashtra, Punjab and Tamil Nadu announced the extension before the announcement of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Karnataka had announced a two-day extension. The government said it would come with fresh guidelines.
On Monday, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa appeared against the media and announced new relaxations and guidelines for the next phase of lockdown that will be in force from tomorrow.
Here are the newly issued guidelines
- Public transport services like autos and taxis allowed except in containment zones.
- Public road transport services including private and government buses except in containment zones.
- All trains inside the state allowed to function.
- All shops can be opened.
- Except in containment zones, parks to be open from 7 am to 9 am and 5 pm to 7 pm.
- As per MHA guidelines, Gyms and golf courses to remain shut.
- Wearing masks made compulsory in all regions.
- A complete curfew will be imposed on Sundays until the 31st of May.
The Deputy Chief Minister Aswath Narayan said that people from the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala will not be allowed in the state. People coming from other states need to undergo mandatory quarantine. CM Yeddyurappa said,
“Strict lockdown measures in containment zones and economic activities will be permitted in other areas. Sundays will be total lockdown across the state. The home quarantine will be strengthened.”
In the Monday morning bulletin, Karnataka reported 84 new cases of coronavirus in the state making it the biggest daily increase so far in the state since 8th March when the first-ever case was reported. Bengaluru Urban reported 18 cases out of it.
