Omicron: Indian states get ready for another wave

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NEW DELHI: As the Omicron variant rises across the country, several states are reintroducing limitations as a preventive measure.

There have been 422 Omicron cases recorded throughout 17 states and union territories so far, with 130 patients recovering. With 108 new variant cases, Maharashtra leads, followed by Delhi (76), Gujarat (43), Telangana (41), Kerala (38), and Tamil Nadu (34).

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has advised states to ensure that the COVID-19 regulations are strictly followed, and citizens to remain vigilant, particularly during the holiday season. It further suggested that the fourth wave of COVID-19 cases is sweeping the globe.

Delhi

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said at a press conference on Tuesday that the authorities and residents must work together to stop the spread of COVID-19. He declared a “yellow alert” in the national capital, meaning that the city will be subjected to level 1 limitations under the Graded Response Action Plan. According to Kejriwal, a comprehensive order outlining the parameters would be issued soon.

Karnataka

On Sunday, the Government of Karnataka decided to impose a 10-day “night curfew” from 10 PM to 5 AM starting December 28. Restrictions on new year’s evening parties and gatherings have also been declared by the authorities.

“There will be no functions, parties in the external premises, especially for those celebrating with DJs and large gatherings, they have been absolutely outlawed in Karnataka,” said Chief Minister of Karnataka Basavaraj Bommai. Eateries, motels, bars and restaurants, for example, can have up to 50% of their sitting capacity.

Maharashtra

The Government of Maharashtra, which has seen the highest number of Omicron cases, has banned gatherings of more than five people in public places between 9 PM and 6 AM, as well as limiting the number of people allowed in public functions. Indoor weddings are limited to 100 people, and outdoor weddings are limited to 250 people under new standards. In the state, gyms, spas, hotels, theatres, and cinema halls can only accommodate 50 per cent of their full capacity.

On Saturday, Rajesh Tope, Minister of Health, Government of Maharashtra, warned that imposing a new lockdown in the state will be considered only if the daily demand for medical oxygen reaches 800 metric tonnes.