New Delhi (NVI): Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today announced weekend curfew in the national capital to stem the spread of Covid-19 amid the constant surge in coronavirus cases in the past few days.
“Malls, gyms, spas and auditoriums to be closed. Cinemas halls to operate at 30% capacity only. People will not be allowed to dine-in restaurants, only home deliveries permitted,” Kejriwal said in a video address.
However, essential activities like weddings planned ahead will be allowed with curfew passes. Those engaged in rendering essential services will also be allowed, he said, adding that these restrictions are “necessary to break the chain of transmission.”
Apart from that, weekly markets or bazars will be allowed but with restrictions.
Kejriwal further said that there is no shortage of beds in Delhi’s hospitals, adding that more than 5,000 beds were available according to latest data.
Before announcing the restrictions, Kejriwal had a meeting with Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and top officials.
The latest decision by the Kejriwal government comes a day after 14 private hospitals have been declared as full ‘COVID hospitals’ and wouldn’t be allowed to admit any non-COVID patient.
Delhi today reported 17,282 fresh Covid cases, the National Capital’s highest single-day spike recorded so far. The number of daily Covid related deaths has also been increasing.
A night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am till 30 April is already imposed in Delhi. Pregnant women, patients, those travelling to and from airports, railway stations, state bus terminus, officials related to the functioning of offices of diplomats, and those holding any constitutional post are exempted from the curfew. While travellers will have to show tickets, persons on constitutional post will have to produce valid ID card.
-ARK
