Comprehensive changes to lockdown norms are on the horizon

Thiruvananthapuram: As the number of Covid cases continues to rise, the state government is considering a complete overhaul of lockdown restrictions.
One of the major steps being considered is total shutdown in areas, clusters, and wards with a test positivity rate of more than 10%. (TPR).
The Centre has also directed states to impose strict restrictions in areas with a TRP of more than 10%.

There is a push to move Covid patients to first- and second-line treatment centres until they test negative. This is being done in response to a reported increase in the number of people contracting the infection within families. The contact list of Covid positive people would be traced and closely monitored.

There is a push to move Covid patients to first- and second-line treatment centres until they test negative. This is being done in response to a reported increase in the number of people contracting the infection within families. The contact list of Covid positive people would be traced and closely monitored.

Areas with lower TPR would be given more leeway. In such places, all shops would be permitted to operate on a daily basis. Every week, the employees of shops and businesses would be tested.

Aside from increasing the number of daily tests to 2 lakh, there is a plan to open testing centres in front of shops and business establishments.

The government is also considering lifting the weekend lockdown and restricting access to tourist areas. All recommendations for changes to lockdown measures and relaxations would be thoroughly reviewed at the chief secretary’s level before being submitted to the chief minister.

The review meeting on Tuesday is expected to make a decision on these recommendations. The idea is to provide more relaxation during the Onam festival season while also taking precautions to prevent infection spread.

The restrictions imposed on the ground during the first wave were widely perceived to be quite effective in containing the virus. Similar measures, however, were missing during the second wave, resulting in the increase in cases.

There is also criticism that restrictions imposed at the ward and cluster levels are ineffective, and that monitoring by the health department, local governments, and police has slackened.

There is a lack of coordination among various departments. The authorities appear to be primarily concerned with fining shop owners and private bus operators.

The KSRTC does not strictly adhere to the “one passenger, one seat” rule. Despite a large number of passengers, the corporation is not operating all services, and the long lines in front of liquor stores have also been heavily criticised.

The weekend lockdown will continue today.

Thiruvananthapuram: On Sunday, the weekend lockdown will be extended. However, stores selling necessities such as seeds and fertiliser will remain open. Studios will be open for business.
Private bus service will not be available. KSRTC will provide only a limited number of services.

The Kerala Books and Publications Society (KBPS) will be in charge of textbook printing.