Maharashtra imposes curfew to arrest the spread of coronavirus after 15 new cases reported in last 24 hrs

The state government already shut down the local train metro services and other public transport in its bid to arrest the spread of the deadly contagion.

Upping the measures, the state government has sealed the district borders to stop the movement of people and goods within the state.

"We had imposed Section 144. Today I am compelled to announce a statewide curfew. People were not listening and we are compelled. More than four people can't assemble at one place. We are sealing borders of all districts," Maharashtra Chief Minister Udhav Thackeray announced, reported Times Now.
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"Essentials like groceries, milk, bakery, medical, etc will remain open. People need not panic. All religious places will remain closed. Only the priests and clerics alone will be inside and pray," added the Maharashtra CM.

He said strict action is necessitated as the state is at a crucial point and any delay would lead to catastrophic.

Reports said 15 more coronavirus positive cases emerged in the last 24 hours in Mharashtra. Out of the total fresh cases, 14 are in Mumbai and one in Pune.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra State Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Monday warned strict action against those who try to violate government's decision to arrest coronavirus outbreak in the state.

In his official statement, Mr Pawar said that so far the state government has taken number of measures  and steps to tackle the situation including imposing section 144 till March 31 to to prevent gatherings to stop the spread of the virus further.
    
Most of the people in the state are following the decisions taken by the state government and the restrictions, he said.

He  thanked the health department of the state, police department, local self-government organizations, and administration officials, employees, who are fulfilling their responsibilities at risk of their lives.