Kerala extends lockdown till June 9; more relaxations announced

Thiruvananthapuram: The current state-wide lockdown to check the spread of COVID-19 in Kerala has been extended till June 9. 

This was announced by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during his daily press conference in Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday.

The government, however, decided to give a few more relaxations for the retail sector and industrial organizations.

The triple lockdown in Malappuram has been withdrawn following a significant drop in the Test Positivity Rate (TPR). But lockdown restrictions will continue to be in force in the district.

The chief minister said though the number of active Covid-19 cases dropped significantly during the lockdown, it can be lifted only if the average Test Positivity Rate stays below 15 per cent for a minimum three consecutive days.  On Saturday, the TPR stood at 16.59%.

The state has been under lockdown since May 8. It was extended till May 30 as the number of cases remained high.

What is allowed and what is not from May 31

• Industrial organizations will be allowed to function with 50 per cent of staff strength. The KSRTC will conduct services to industrial organizations if required.

• Shops that provide raw materials for industries can open till 5pm on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Packaging shops can also be opened during this period.

• Banks can function till 5pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

• Textiles, jewellery shops and footwear shops can open from 9am to 5pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

• Shops that sell school supplies can also function on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

• Toddy shops can start parcel services.

• Bars and liquor outlets will remain shut.

• RD, NSS collection agents will be allowed to travel on Mondays to collect the funds and pay them.

• Scrap dealing businesses can open twice a week.

• Travel permission will be given for those who have received government appointment orders to join service.

Sanitise shops, wear masks

• Shops and offices should be cleaned and sanitised before reopening.

• They should keep strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols. Ensure masks for all staff and customers. Legal actions including arrests will be taken to shop owners who fail to follow this.

• Police will take strict action against those who refuse to follow COVID-19 restrictions. Strict vigil will be kept to avoid crowing at medical shops.