Mumbai: Breaking all its previous records, Maharashtra reported 57,074 new COVID-19 cases on Sunday, which pushed the tally to 30,10,597, according to health department data. Of these, 4,30,503 are active cases. The state also saw 222 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 55,878, while the number of recoveries during this period stood at 27,508.
The Maharashtra government on Sunday announced a weekend lockdown in the state from 8 pm on Friday to 7 am on Monday in a bid to curb the growing numbers of COVID-19 cases in the state. Apart from the weekend lockdown, strict restrictions will be in force from Monday 8 pm onwards, Minority Affairs Minister and NCP leader Nawab Malik told reporters after the cabinet meeting. He said that night curfew will continue and prohibitory orders issued under section 144 will be in force during the daytime for the week.
As per official communication, restaurants and hotels will be allowed to offer takeaway and parcel services only and no dine-in service will be available. For offices, employees will have to work from home, except for insurance, mediclaim, electricity and civic offices.
“Coronavirus cases in Mumbai and Maharashtra are increasing. Several decisions have been taken in the meeting today. Night curfew will be put in place from 8 pm to 7 am. Only essential services will be permitted. Restaurants are permitted only for takeaway and parcel services. Theatres will be closed. The detailed SOP will be released soon,” Textiles, Port and Fisheries minister Aslam Shaikh said.
“Government offices will be allowed to function only at 50 percent of their capacity. Industries and production sector, vegetable markets will function with Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) and construction sites will operate if there is an accommodation facility for workers,” he said.
Theatres, drama theatres will be shut, while film and television shootings will continue if there is no crowding. Parks and playgrounds will also be closed, he said.
Religious places will have to follow the SoPs, government said, adding that that public transport system will remain functional.
(With inputs from agencies)