Thiruvananthapuram: Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan imposed a lockdown in Kerala after 28 new coronavirus positive cases were reported in the state on Monday.

With this, the total number of people under treatment for coronavirus rose to 91. If four persons who were cured are to be included, the total number of cases reported in the state has hit 95.

Among the 28 new COVID-19 positive cases 25 returned from Dubai. Among the 28 who have been tested positive, 19 are from Kasaragod, 5 are from Kannur, 2 are from Ernakulam while one each are from Pathanamthitta and Thrissur districts, the CM said.

The lockdown will be in force until March 31. Public transport facilities including private and KSRTC buses will not run. All state borders will be closed. Private vehicles will be allowed to ply but with restrictions, Pinarayi Vijayan added.

Availability of essential services including food grains and medicines will be ensured. Hospitals will function in full strength. Shops, medical stores, fueling stations and LPG service will continue to operate. Banks will function from 11 am to 2 pm.

In all districts except Kasaragod, shops selling essential items will remain open between 7 am to 5 pm. In Kasaragod, shops will be open between 11 am and 5 pm.

People will not be allowed to eat food at restaurants but take away and home delivery will be allowed. Bars will be closed but BEVCO outlets will remain open, he said.

Government offices will run with adequate safety measures. All religious activities that will attract crowds will be stopped, the CM said. People coming out of their homes must maintain safe distance while availing services or buying items from shops, the CM explained.

People under observation will be strictly barred from travelling. The government is considering the idea of providing essential items to those under observation. People have been advised to stay indoors, Pinarayi Vijayan added.