The Kerala government on Monday announced lockdown after 28 new cases of coronavirus were reported in the state, taking the total to 95. The lockdown will continue till March 31, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said.
Of the 28 new cases, 25 have come from Dubai and the rest are primary contacts, The News Minute quoted Vijayan as saying.
In a tweet, Vijayan said essential services will remain open and state borders will be closed. Water, electricity, telecom, essential food and medicine services will be ensured to the public, the Chief Minister said.
Camps will be prepared for migrant labourers in the state and they will be provided food and given medical examination, The News Minute further quoted Vijayan as saying.
Kerala State Road Transport Corporation and private buses will not ply, but private vehicles will be allowed. Petrol stations will not be shut and LPG distribution will be allowed, according to PTI.
Chief Secretary Tom Jose had earlier said that in case of lockdown, essential services like water, electricity, food, milk, medical shops, petrol pumps, provisional stores and others will not be affected.
The Kerala High Court has also decided to remain shut till April 8 except for emergency functions in view of the coronavirus outbreak in the state.
(With PTI inputs)