Pune: Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad are under 10-day strict lockdown in order to curtail the spread of the novel coronavirus. The strict lockdown imposed in Pune will be lifted on July 23 (midnight). Thus, there will be no lockdown in Pune from July 24, Pune District Collector Naval Kishore Ram informed. Though, the strict lockdown will be lifted, the people are advised to follow strict rules or face stringent actions from the administration.

While talking to mediapersons on Saturday, Ram said that lockdown was imposed in Pune because the region is witnessing a surge in COVID-19 cases.  Also, the lockdown was not intended to cause panic or trouble to the people. In fact, the lockdown gave multiple relaxations as it allowed many companies including MIDC to function. To avoid over-crowding a novel plan may be impleneted in the region to control the spread of the infection.

He also stated, "It is difficult to say, when the pandemic will flatten its curve but people should take protective measures. Strict rules will be imposed in containment zones."

Ram said, "Though the cases are rising in the city and rural areas, the situation is under control. There is complete availability of beds and no patient will face any trouble."