BS Yediyurappa hints at continuing stringent measures in the state

Bengaluru: As the confusion over the extension of lockdown prevails in Karnataka, the chief minister BS Yediyurappa, on Wednesday, indicated that stringent measures will be continued in the state since the Covid cases have not fully declined. The cases are still high in rural areas.

However, he hinted that certain sectors may get respite like the export-oriented businesses will be permitted to function from Thursday.

Presently, the state is under lockdown till June 7 and there were speculations regarding its extension.

Yediyurappa said, “I will have a discussion with everyone to make a decision on measures that need to be taken regarding lockdown. Most importantly I have decided to give permission to those involved in exports. So export-oriented business will be allowed from Thursday.”

He added, “Will discuss on how to go about, by extending the lockdown and taking strict measures, with experts and will take a call after taking their suggestions. Coronavirus has not completely come under control, it is still high in rural areas, we will make a decision considering how to balance things and go ahead.”

The CM is heading a separate meeting with experts and senior ministers and officials this evening. The state’s Covid-19 Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), in its report, has mentioned that the positivity rate in the state has to come down below 5% and the cases should be less than 5,000, only then can the restrictions be relaxed.

Karnataka government had declared a 14 days closure initially from April 27 but went for a complete lockdown from May 10 to 24 as the cases continued to surge.

As the lockdown yielded good results, experts advised extending it till June 7. The chief minister said that he will make a decision on the second lockdown relief package in a few days.

The CM had earlier said that a second lockdown relief package was under consideration and will be given to those who were left out in the first.

Lately, he had announced an over Rs 1,250 crore financial package as relief for those whose livelihood has been impacted by the lockdown.