From 0.6% of the total caseload in February-end, active Covid-19 cases in Karnataka stood at 2.4% on March 29, triggering concerns about the health infrastructure coming under strain should the rise continue or worsen. On Tuesday, this figure neared 2.6%, as the state reported 2,975 fresh infections, 1,984 of these in Bengaluru.
The toll is also becoming a cause for worry, as the state reported 21 deaths — the figure crossing 20-mark after more than four months. Public health experts say the second wave is following a trajectory similar to the first one and hospital beds need to be increased to ensure timely treatment, fewer deaths and less stress on health facilities.
Four districts have a higher proportion of active cases compared to the state average: Bengaluru Urban at 3.8%, Bidar (8.5%), Kalaburagi (4.4%) and Udupi (3%).
The government, however, sent mixed signals over the upcoming festival season. On Tuesday, Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner Dr KV Rajendra issued prohibitory orders under Section 144(3) of CrPC to prevent congregations, only to be overruled by the district minister, Kota Shrinivas Poojari soon after.
The minister said all festivals could be celebrated with crowds of up to 500 people in open places. Yakshagana, Kola, Nema and other religious functions which have already been scheduled can be held, he added.