An expert committee, constituted by Karnataka government, suggested extending the lockdown in hotspots in the state for two more weeks.
“All gyms, bars, hotels, shopping malls, religious institutions, all places of entertainment and movie theatres shall remain closed until April 30 or further orders,’’ said the report submitted by the committee to the state government.
Other recommendations of the committee include enforcing a strict social distancing policy till May 31, not allowing gathering of more than four to six people at public places, extending Section 144 in certain areas and shutting down places where a large number of people use common toilets. Senior citizens should be strictly advised to stay indoors until April 30 or further orders, the committee said.
The committee also recommended that the government should plan a phased exit strategy after the 21-day lockdown.
“Phase-wise lifting of lockdown is essential to prevent public frustration and to instill confidence, provide a livelihood to many and consolidate the gains made so far,’’ said the report. “Life is not going to be normal for at least six months,’’ it added.
The panel pointed out that lockdown of a specific industry for a long period of time will result in layoffs, compounding the economic problems.
The committee suggested that lockdown may be extended if there is “a tsunami of patients hitting the nation in the future, which is very unlikely looking at the way the government machinery is working.’’
Further, the panel encouraged the use of cloth masks, handkerchiefs or dupattas to ensure safety.
The committee has taken note of issues like hoarding and suggested that grocery shops must be open from early morning till late night to prevent hoarding. Large grounds of educational institutions may be converted into fruit and vegetable markets, it said, and added that social distancing should be enforced in such places.
IT, BT and commercial establishments and essential services in the government can operate at 50 per cent strength whereas educational institutions should remain closed till May 31, the report said.
