Despite relaxations announced by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for non-containment zones in the country, with effect from April 20, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said that state shall not relax its curfew.
The decision, according to him, comes in wake of the review of COVID-19 situation in the state, which has so far reported 244 cases. Several districts are reeling under community transmission threat.
Singh also said that there shall be no relaxation or concessions for Ramzan and only essential activities, like procurement of wheat, shall be allowed. Refuting reports of partial exemptions in some districts, Singh ordered strict enforcement of the curfew in all districts and issued relevant orders to all deputy commissioners.
“No special curfew passes should be issued to the people on account of Ramzan. Take firm steps to ensure no crowding at the grocery and other shops selling essentials at this time and ensure compliance of social distancing at all costs,” Amarinder told the DCs.
“We need to focus on saving lives and smooth procurement of wheat. We will review situation on May 3 and take further decision,” he said.
Owing to concerns on hygiene at the mandis, Singh also ordered an immediate health audit there. Everyone at the mandis, including the farmers involved in wheat procurement, shall be screened for COVID-19.
Meanwhile, the state reported 10 new cases today, with six from Jalandhar and four from Mohali. The positive patients from Mohali include an infant and senior citizen and are relatives of PGIMER, Chandigarh, staff who tested positive earlier this week.