No lockdown in Assam, more restrictions to be put in place: Health Min Keshav Mahanta

In view of the rising COVID-19 cases in the state, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma chaired a crucial cabinet meet on Tuesday to assess the current situation.

Taking to Twitter, CM Sarma informed, “Held a meeting with ministers & senior officers today to assess the #COVID situation in Assam and need to intensify containment measures.”

The Chief Minister has directed the officials to ensure strict enforcement of restrictions to bring down positivity rate in the state.

This was the first meeting of the Assam Cabinet after government formation in the State.

Shortly before the Cabinet meet, CM Sarma held a separate round of meeting with Health Minister Keshab Mahanta and Disaster Management Minister Jogen Mohan besides Assam DGP Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta, Kamrup Metro DC Biswajit Pegu and top health department officials.

Meanwhile, newly appointed Health Minister of Assam, Keshav Mahanta said that the state government is not planning to impose lockdown in the State as of now, but more stricter measures will be put in place to bring the COVID-19 situation under control.

Briefing mediapersons after the conclusion of the meeting, Mahanta said, “The Covid situation in the State was discussed in detail in the meeting today. New guidelines and regulations for controlling the situation will be announced by the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police at 11 am tomorrow.”

Mahanta also informed that the curfew hours in Assam are likely to be extended.

Assam has been witnessing a steady rise in daily COVID-19 cases and deaths, with night curfew and several other restrictions already in force across the state.