Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesdaygave a clear warning that unless people strictly to Covid-19 protocols, theyshould be prepared for another bout of lockdown in view of the increasing casesin the state.
He has ordered all authorities concerned to ban publicprocessions, rallies, meetings and gatherings to avoid overcrowding, besidesmandatory wearing of face masks in public.
Thackeray also announced that the 'Mahatma Jyotiba PhuleJan Aarogya Yojana' (MJPJAY) scheme is being extended for another two months inthe state to treat Covid-19 patients at state expense.
The CM's stringent directives came in a high-level reviewmeeting of the Covid-19 status in the state in which Deputy Chief Minister AjitPawar, Health Minister Rajesh Tope, Chief Secretary Sanjay Kumar, allDivisional Commissioners, Collectors, police and health officers, and membersof Covid-19 Task Force and others took part.
Expressing serious concern at the renewed spread ofCovid-19, the CM asked the administration strictly enforce all the SOPs forcoronavirus control with penal measures against those violating the norms.
"Avoid overcrowding. Use face-masks, follow all protocolswhile in public events, gatherings, weddings, etc.... It is upto you.Otherwise, be prepared for another lockdown," Thackeray said withoutmincing words.