Triple lockdown in 175 local bodies in Kerala, all restrictions lifted in 82

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:The lockdown restrictions in the state have been extended for one more week from Wednesday, with triple lockdown in local bodies with test positivity rate (TPR) above 15%.
It has been decided to revise the TPR-based restrictions so that there will be no restrictions in local self-governments (LSGs) with TPR below 5% (A category), partial restrictions in LSGs with TPR 5-10% (B category) and lockdown in LSGs with TPR 10% to 15% (C category). There are 82 local bodies in A category, 415 in B category, 362 in C category and 175 in D category (above 15% TPR) now.
The review meeting chaired by CM Pinarayi Vijayan decided to allow functioning of all government and private establishments with 100% attendance in A and B category LSGs and 50% employees in category C LSGs. Restaurants and hotels in A and B categories can function till 9.30pm but provide only home delivery and takeaways.
Indoor games and gyms are allowed to function in the first two categories without air conditioners. Social distancing should be maintained in these centres while only 20 persons will be allowed entry at a time.
Vax priority to 18-23 age group
As per the standard operating protocols issued by the Centre and guidelines issued by the Union tourism ministry, tourism destinations with accommodation facilities can start functioning. However, only those vaccinated or those obtaining RT-PCR negative certificates should be allowed to stay. Further restrictions will be decided only later.
The review meeting also decided to increase testing in all districts in the state. It has been directed to give special attention to tribal colonies in Kasaragod after it was pointed out that there is a rapid spread of infections there. The chief minister has also given instructions against removing any temporary frontline employee from anti-Covid efforts now.
In vaccination, it has been decided to give priority to those aged between 18 and 23. Besides private bus employees, guest workers, people with mental disabilities, staff of government secretariat and legislature secretariat, including those in the ministers’ offices, have been included in the priority group.