Nagaland extends Covid lockdown by another week, eases restrictions

In view of the current COVID-19 situation, the Nagaland government on Wednesday decided to extend the ongoing lockdown in the state by another week till June 18 with easing of some restrictions.

Addressing the media, government spokesperson Mmhonlumo Kikon said the High Powered Committee decided to extend the total lockdown after thorough consultation with all the district task forces.

Kikon reiterated that while Kohima and Dimapur have witnessed a dip in positivity rate, cases are rising in some districts.

He further informed that the respective District Task Forces will take a call on the relaxations and restrictions during the lockdown period.

The HPC has recommended the COVID-19 war room to increase the duration of shopping timings for essential commodities, which is currently from 6 am to 12 noon.

The committee also decided that trains will not stop at Dimapur, the only railway station in the state.

While construction activities had resumed in the state, it was decided that labourers from outside Nagaland would not be allowed if they do not furnish a negative COVID- 19 test result.

A maximum of 20 members shall be permitted to attend prayer service in churches. Previously all places of worship and church services had been restricted.

The government also allowed the opening of stationery shops. However, classes will continue in the online mode.

The positivity rate in the state has come down to 18 percent. The recovery rate has gone up to 75.03 percent.