Coronavirus: KCR extends lockdown in Telangana till May 29
The countrywide lockdown necessitated due to coronavirus is scheduled to end on May 17, but Telangana has become the first state to extend it till May 29. Speaking to reporters at Pragathi Bhavan in Hyderabad on Tuesday, Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao said people demanded an extension of the restrictions and added that he informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi about this decision.
Over 1,000 cases have been reported from Telangana; 29 died
With 1,096 cases and 29 deaths, Telangana is facing a huge health crisis, much like the rest of the country. The newest state of India shelters six red zone districts. 18 districts are in the orange zone and nine in the green zone. KCR said cases are continuing to rise despite the curbs, hence, extending the lockdown was important.
A cautious KCR said we can't take risks
KCR said three districts that constitute Hyderabad — Hyderabad, Medchal-Malkajgiri, Ranga Reddy — reported a high number of cases. "We cannot compromise here and take any risks. 66% of all cases are from the limits of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) only. 25 of the total 29 deaths are also from here," he disclosed. Shops won't be opened in Hyderabad, Medchal, Suryapet, and Vikarabad.
People of Hyderabad could be upset: KCR
On Tuesday, 11 fresh cases, all from Hyderabad, were reported. "People in Hyderabad may be upset with me, but I have no other choice. We will observe the situation till May 15 and take a call on our future course of action," he said.
50% shops will open on alternate days
Further, KCR informed that municipal commissioners have been instructed to let 50% shops function on alternate days. This move will promote social distancing and give all shop owners a fair chance. "Shops can open from 10 am to 6 pm. The night-time curfew will remain in place across the state," he said. KCR also announced liquor stores will reopen from Wednesday.
Liquor became dearer in Telangana
Barring the shops in 15 containment areas, standalone liquor stores will be opened between 10 am and 6 pm. The price of imported liquor was increased by 16% and country-made alcohol will now be sold at an 11% price hike. KCR said since neighboring states have reopened liquor stores, there was a concern of smuggling. Illicit liquor was also being brewed extensively, he added.
Another high-level meeting will be held on May 15
KCR said government offices can resume working from Wednesday, underlining that Stamps and Registration Department can work with 100% staff. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief said he would be holding a review meeting on May 15 and will not hesitate to revoke restrictions if the situation worsens. The eight pending Class 10 exams will also be held soon, the state's cabinet decided.
Telangana extended lockdown earlier too
Earlier too, Telangana had become one of the first states to extend lockdown, without waiting for the Centre's orders. On April 19, the state government decided to extend the lockdown till May 7, when the second nationwide lockdown was supposed to end on May 4. However, beyond the curbs, governments need a consolidated exit plan as the extensions are stressing the battered economy.
