Thiruvananthapuram: Section 144 has been imposed in Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode districts with effect from Saturday.

The Collectors of the districts issued the order. The prohibitory order will be valid for one month. However, public transport will not be affected.

Gathering of over 5 people has been prohibited. No gathering will be allowed inside and outside containment zones. Shops, banks and government establishments will remain open. There will be no change in examinations.

People can participate in weddings and funerals under strict restrictions. 20 people will be allowed to attend funerals while 50 people will be allowed to attend weddings. Only a maximum of 20 people can take part in government, religious or political events.

Self Government Organisations and police will try to prevent gathering of people. Over 5 people being present inside hotels, restaurants and other shops will be considered a violation of section 144.

Section 144 has been imposed in the wake of increasing number of coronavirus patients. It is learned that prohibitory orders could be imposed in more districts in the coming days. Earlier, Transport Minister A. K. Saseendran had said that section 144 may have to be imposed in Kozhikode.

It must be noted that 4 districts had reported over 1,000 COVID-19 patients on Friday. In this situation, the government is imposing section 144 to prevent public gathering without declaring lockdown.