India extends coronavirus lockdown until May 31 after number of cases surges
- The lockdown affecting 1.3 billion people – the world’s largest – has been in force since late March and has been devastating for India’s poor
- The lockdown extension came as India recorded its biggest single-day jump in virus cases with 4,987 new infections in the last 24 hours
The lockdown affecting 1.3 billion people – the world’s largest – has been in force since late March and has been devastating for India’s poor, with millions of migrant workers losing their jobs.
“Lockdown measures to contain the spread of Covid-19 will continue for a period of up to [May 31],” the Home Affairs Ministry said in a statement.
Schools, places of worship, shopping malls, cinemas and gyms must remain closed, the ministry said, and bans on large gatherings for religious and sporting events will be extended.
City metro train services and domestic and international air travel will remain suspended, it said. A night curfew restricting public movement, except for essential services, will be kept in place between 7pm and 7am.
Restaurants however will now be allowed to operate their kitchens for takeaway services. Sports complexes and stadiums are permitted to host events – but without spectators.
Inter-state and intrastate buses and passenger vehicles were authorised to operate, but with the discretion of states and territories.