Even as it announced relaxations within the lockdown, Karnataka has decided to not allow people from four states — Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat – inside its borders till May 31.

After holding a gathering with ministers and senior officials regarding the central government’s guidelines on the extension of the Covid-19 lockdown, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday announced various relaxations.“Karnataka won't allow entry of individuals from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat within the state until May 31, except under inevitable circumstances,” Yediyurappa said.“BMTC and state transport corporation buses will operate with only 30 passengers on each bus, following social distancing norms and wearing masks. The bus services won't be allowed in containment zones. Auto and cabs can operate, salons, parks are going to be opened from Tuesday,” he added.

Along with state transport corporation buses, private buses also are permitted to start out operations. “Bus fares won't be increased. Inter-state transport won't be allowed, except in emergencies,” Yediyurappa told reporters.

According to the Chief Minister, autos and taxis can have two passengers plus a driver. In Maxi-cabs, the utmost number should be four passengers, including the driving force.

The Chief Minister clarified that malls, hotels, educational institutions, theaters, and temples will stay shut until May 31. All other shops, including salons and street vendors, can function from 7 am to 7 pm.

Meanwhile, the government has decided for an entire shutdown every Sunday till May 31. “Karnataka will have an entire curfew on Sundays. No economic activity or movement of vehicles are going to be permitted within the state,” said Yediyurappa.The Chief Minister clarified that malls, hotels, educational institutions, theatres, and temples will stay shut until May 31.The government said that trains can operate within the state, but no inter- state services will run till May 31.Parks are going to be open from 7 am to 9 am and from 5 pm to 7 pm. The chief minister said night curfew from 7 pm to 7 am will continue.Karnataka has reported 84 new COVID19 cases on Monday (by 12 pm). With this, the entire number of positive persons within the state has gone up to 1,231. It includes 37 deaths and 521 discharges.

Amidst the nationwide lockdown till 31st May Maharashtra and Gujarat remain the worst affected states whereas other state tallies are going up rapidly as the migrant workers return from the hotspots. All state governments are taking a slew of measures to tackle the challenge but the availability of trained health workers and infrastructure poses a major challenge.

With Inputs from newindianexpress.com