Kerala plans to relax lockdown rules followed by TPR-based restrictions in affected areas

With a lower Test Positivity Rate (TPR), the Kerala Government has decided to impose some more regulations and at the same time relax certain restrictions. The decision has been taken keeping in mind the low TPR  witnessed after an extension of lockdown in the state for containing the spread of COVID-19 infection.  

The decision was taken after a review meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday. 

During the meeting, CM Pinarayi Vijayan took the decision of imposing restrictions based on the TPR in different areas. The state has been divided into four separate categories based on the number of cases in the areas. 

Press Release by Kerala CMO

According to a press release issued by the Kerala Chief Minister Office (CMO), 

Areas below TPR 5 are included in category A, areas 5 to 10 are included in category B and areas 10 to 15 included in category C. Areas with a TPR above 15 will be in category D.

The state government also took several decisions regarding the reopening of government offices and several other facilities in the state. 

Relaxations in lockdown

As per the meeting and the categories, it is being said that the government office in category A and B will work with full staff whereas offices in category C will work only with 50% staff. 82 local bodies will be included in category A, 415 in category B, 362 in category C, and 175 in category D. All the decisions regarding the functioning of restaurants and restaurants hotels have also been taken. Similarly, categories A and B will see the reopening of restaurants whereas indoor games and gyms will operate without an AC and maintain physical distance. 

As stated by ANI, the government has allowed tourist accommodations in hotels according to the procedures of the Union Ministry of Health and the guidelines of the Ministry of Tourism. However, accommodation will be provided to only those are fully vaccinated and have negative RTPCR report. 

Kerala has seen an extended lockdown for the last one week after witnessing an evident rise in the number of COVID-19 cases. After the report of a slight dip in the number of cases, the government took the decision to impose relaxation in certain areas. Also, the overall Test Positivity Rate has also improved and stands at 10.9%.

(Source: ANI)