Will MHA directive have impact on lockdown in Coastal Karnataka?

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Mangaluru, May 29, 2021: With the Union Home Ministry asking the state governments to continue containment measures for Covid-19 till June 30, the Lockdown-like strict measures are likely to continue in the state, particularly in the Coastal districts which are reporting a high number of Covid cases and deaths.

In a letter on May 27, the Union Home Secretary had asked all the state governments to continue the containment measures for Covid as conveyed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare dated April 25, 2021, to extend up to June 30, 2021.

“I would like to highlight that despite the declining trend, the number of active cases presently is still very high. It is therefore important that containment measures may continue to be implemented strictly. Any relaxation by the State/UTs may be considered at an appropriate time, in a graded manner, after assessing the local situation, requirements, and resources,” the letter stated.

This has hinted at the continuation of lockdown-like restrictions in Karnataka. The present lockdown will be in force up to June 7. Now it is likely to be extended for 2-3 weeks more.

The restrictions may be very necessary in the coastal districts which are reporting a high number of cases and also has high active cases. In the letter too the central government has expressed its concern over the high number of active cases.

As of May 28, DK has 9003 active cases. Udupi and Uttara Kannada had 5,948 and 5,891 active cases respectively.
They are also reporting a high number of deaths. Uttara Kannada has been reporting an average of 10 deaths in recent weeks. Udupi and DK too are witnessing about 5 deaths every day.

According to sources as the lockdown-like restrictions have helped in bringing down the number of cases and deaths, the state government may further extend the restrictions. However, the government may think of a few relaxations in some of the activities.