COVID: Delhi Markets to be shut: Arvind Kejriwal

New Delhi: Delhi is considering closing some markets for a few days in view of rising cases of Corona Virus, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal declared a day after his government said the city would not be put under another lockdown since the third wave of COVID-19 has already peaked out.

“Since cases are rising in Delhi, we are sending a general proposal to the Central government so that, if required, the Delhi government can shut down those markets for few days where norms are not being followed and they are becoming local COVID-19 hotspots,” Mr Kejriwal said in his coronavirus address today.

The state is also looking at reducing the number of people allowed for public gatherings back to 50.

“In keeping with the Central government guidelines, Delhi had allowed up to 200 people at weddings. But now we have decided to go back to the earlier limit of 50 people. I have sent a proposal to the Lieutenant Governor for approval. I hope he gives permission soon,” Arvind Kejriwal said observing that many weren’t wearing masks on Diwali or distancing while shopping.

“People think it (COVID-19) will not happen to them. I request you with folded hands that the Coronavirus disease can happen to anyone, and can turn fatal once it infects you. Please follow social distancing,” he said.

The Covid case spike in the national capital – the third wave of infections – started in the end of October, and has since continued with record numbers each week. On November 3, the city had logged 6,725 cases, three days later it crossed the 7,000 mark. On November 11, the city recorded 8,593 new cases, an all-time high. Though Delhi recorded 3,500 cases in the past two days it came with a drop in testing to under 30,000 – half of the usual.

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