Lockdown-like curbs to continue in Kerala, only essential services allowed on Feb 6

Thiruvananthapuram: The lockdown-like curbs imposed on Sundays will continue in the state. The COVID-19 review meeting has decided to impose a total lockdown across the state on February 6.

Only essential services will be allowed on Sunday, February 6, and district-wise restrictions based on the A, B and C categorisation would continue in the state, a state government release said.

In the meeting, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also said that strict action will be taken against those denying treatment to seriously ill patients who are COVID positive and directed that it would be applicable on both private and government-run hospitals, the release said.

Pinarayi Vijayan further said that Thiruvananthapuram, Wayanad and Kasaragod districts which had shown an increase in COVID cases initially, were witnessing a decrease in infections and the state was showing a slight decline in the spread of the virus.

In view of the number of people admitted to hospitals, including in the ICUs, the situation appeared to be under control, he observed during the meeting, the release said.

The CM also directed the health department to expedite the vaccination process in the state, the release said.

It also said that of the 45,000 applications received for COVID death financial assistance, 40,410 were cleared and the beneficiaries were provided monetary relief.

In the meeting, the CM also directed that the state COVID war room should check the number of hospital admissions and ICUs and take necessary steps.

The state has been witnessing restrictions similar to the lockdown period in the last two Sundays. The government has decided to continue this practice in the wake of the surge in COVID-19 cases. 

Meanwhile, the COVID-19 review meeting also decided that there is no need to impose any fresh restrictions in the state. The curbs which are already imposed will continue.

At present, five districts are listed in the C category. The restrictions are imposed in view of the number of COVID-19 patients admitted to hospitals. According to reports, this system will continue.

The State today reported 42,154 fresh infections.

(with added inputs from PTI)