There are speculations that Karnataka may start the unlocking the state by lifting certain restrictions after June 14. CM B S Yediyurappa is likely to hold a meeting in a day or two, to discuss the matter and take a call.
The state is currently under lockdown till June 14, and the government is likely to go for a Phased Relaxation of Restrictions. CM BSY had earlier said that the state will start its Unlock process only in those districts where the Covid-19 Positivity Rate drops below 5%.
The Karnataka government had initially announced 14 days Janata Curfew type of restrictions from April 27 but subsequently imposed a Complete Lockdown from May 10 to May 24, as the Covid cases continued to rise.
As the Covid-19 cases continued to rise, the Karnataka government had extended the statewide lockdown till June 7th which was subsequently extended till June 14th.
Revenue Minister, R Asoka said that ‘The state government is considering Easing Restrictions in Four to Five phases. But everything will not be thrown open at one go as it may further shoot up the Covid caseload’.
“Initially, we are thinking of Extending the existing shopping hours which is currently from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM. This may be extended up to 12 PM. Also, people may be allowed to visit Parks for the Morning, Evening walk, or Jogging.” he added.
The minister also clarified that no new industries (other than those that are currently allowed to function) will be allowed to resume operations for the time being. Karnataka is witnessing a decline in new Covid-19 cases for the past one or two weeks. The positivity rate for Karnataka stood at 7.53%