Covid-19: West Bengal government extends restrictions until June 15

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The West Bengal government on May 27 extended the ongoing restrictions along with the night curfew by another 15 days until June 15.

“We did not go for complete lockdown or curfew. There are some restrictions that would continue until June 15 to flatten the Covid curve,” Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said.

Other states

Almost all the major states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Delhi have imposed strict restrictions to tame the Covid curve.

Delhi and Maharashtra chief ministers have both confirmed that restrictions are having an effect on the infection.

“In Bengal the caseload is coming down fast, but we need more time to flatten the curve. So we are imposing these restrictions for another 15 days.” she said.

 The daily infection rate in the state has come down from more than 20,000 to about 17,000 over the past few days.

Jute sector

Banerjee said that jute mills and construction workers can work within certain limits. For the jute sector the government is going to allow 40% workers in a single shift from June 1 to June 15.

“I got numerous requests from Punjab government to increase the supply of jute bags for foodgrains, so we have decided to increase the attendance from 30% to 40% with proper maintenance of COVID protocols,” she said.

Construction workers, too, may be allowed to work at the sites after they receive vaccinations.

Markets and shops can now open for business only between 7 am and 10 am every day. All sectors such as gyms, pubs, bars, movie halls, parks, zoo, museums are closed. Government offices are closed. The government has urged private sector companies to encourage work from home.

Board exam

She also announced the broad schedule of board exams which usually take place in March-April.

“Class 12 exams will be scheduled in end-July and class 10 exams will be held in mid-August. The dates will be announced by the respective councils,” she said.

Meeting PM

“Tomorrow the prime minister is coming to Kalaikunda airbase to take stock of the situation in Digha, Sagar and other places in Bengal affected by the cyclone. I shall meet him at Kalaikunda between 2:15 pm and 2:30 pm. I will again place a report before him and seek his help,” she said.

She would also visit some of the affected areas on May 28.