Maharashtra implements new restrictions as coronavirus cases surge

Mumbai : Maharashtra on Saturday announced a series of new restrictions as coronavirus cases increased exponentially; 41.434 new coronavirus cases were registered on the day. The new surge has been credited to omicron variant. Thirteen people lost their lives in last 24 hours, five of them were from Mumbai.

The administration had said that a lockdown will be considered if oxygen requirement crosses 800 metric tonnes per day, or more than 40 per cent of hospital beds for Covid patients are occupied.

"We again stand at a juncture where we are battling a COVID wave. Without discussing how dangerous this new variant may or may not be, let us ensure the safety of one another. I earnestly request you to get vaccinated & mask up as it is the most effective way to fight the virus," tweeted Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, who took a final call on the issue today.

"I reiterate that we want to curtail unnecessary crowding but not impose any lockdown. The fact is that no restrictions will be effective unless we all adhere to COVID protocols. I request you to be vigilant about the symptoms and seek medical advice at the earliest," read a second tweet from the Chief Minister.

Meanwhile, the state has barred the gathering of more than five people and only fully vaccinated people are allowed to board the public transports. Schools and colleges will remain closed till February 15.

Shopping malls, market complexes will work with 50 per cent capacity and will be closed between 10 pm and 8 am. The 50 per cent rule will also apply to cinema halls, where night and morning shows have been banned.

Hair salons, sports complexes, swimming pools, gyms, spas and wellness centres have been shut.