The Karnataka government has ordered shutdown of malls, pubs and theatres, and banned large gatherings in public places for a period of one week. The government has urged the IT-BT companies to allow their employees to work from home to contain the coronavirus. Incidentally, four out of the five positive cases reported in the state are related to the IT sector.
Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, who convened an emergency meeting with health officials and experts on Friday, has ordered all the universities, colleges and schools in the state to remain closed for a week. However, the SSLC and PUC exams will be held as per the schedule. "We have decided to shutdown the academic institutions and public places on the advise of public health experts. We will take stock of the situation after a week to decide on the future course of action," said Yediyurappa, adding that the ongoing legislature session and the government offices will not be affected by this partial ban.
The CM has urged the people not to conduct or participate in social functions like engagement, marriage and naming ceremonies, seminars, workshops, summer camps and coaching classes.
Senior officials from education, health and information departments also held a meeting to discuss outreach programmes to contain panic and to create awareness among the people about COVID-19, mode of transmission and preventive measures.
