Surge in COVID-19 Cases Shuts Down Bengaluru City

Rising COVID-19 cases has led to restrictions under Section 144 being imposed in Bengaluru. The Karnataka government while imposing the restrictions in the city limits also reiterated that the operation of public facilities like swimming pools, gymnasiums and party halls would be prohibited.

The order from the Karnataka government said, “Prohibit operation of amenities like Swimming Pool, Gymnasium, Party Halls, etc., in apartment/residential complexes in limits of Bengaluru City.” Previously, the government banned public gathering to limit the spread of the virus.

These new developments come in the wake of Bengaluru becoming the centre for new COVID-19 cases. On Monday, 4,266 cases were recorded, taking the total tally to 4,55,025. Out of this, 32,605 are active cases and account for 39 deaths till now.

Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Kamal Pant’s order read, “Rallies and demonstrations for any purpose by any group are prohibited across the city till April 20 to strictly comply with the COVID appropriate behaviour.”

He added that public functions and group or collective prayers or any sort of celebrations in places of worship would also be banned until April 20.

The state chief secretary had previously notified on Sunday that gyms and swimming pools would be allowed to function at 50% capacity to prevent over-crowding and physical distancing.

Pant was also quoted as saying, “Pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants will function with 50 per cent occupancy to ensure COVID appropriate behaviour like wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, hand sanitisers and thermal screening.”

Shopping malls, markets, departmental stores and movie theatres have all been directed to ensure that the customers and visitors adhere strictly to the guidelines.