Maharashtra Lockdown to continue with partial relaxations: Rajesh Tope

Mumbai: Restrictions imposed in Maharashtra will continue with some relaxations in view of the rising coronavirus cases, state Health Minister Rajesh Tope said on Thursday. The ongoing Covid-19 curbs in Maharashtra will be in place till 1 June.

It has been decided that all Covid-related restrictions will not be lifted as 21 districts have more than a 10% positivity rate, the Maharashtra Health Minister said. The Maharashtra government is also concerned about some districts where the number of Covid-19 patients have increased.

Speaking to reporters, Tope added, “Relaxations could be given in the districts where cases are declining, guidelines will be issued in a few days.” The state health minister has announced the setting up of a paediatric task force, comprising 13 experts from the state, to prepare for the third wave of the pandemic, in which kids are likely to be affected.

Tope in a statement said noted paediatrician Dr Suhas Prabhu will be the chief of the 13-member task force, while Tatyarao Lahane, the director of the Directorate of Medical Education and Research, will be its member secretary.