Three days institutional quarantine for those coming from Chennai and Delhi: BSY

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Monday said those coming to the state from Chennai and Delhi will have to undergo three days of institutional quarantine followed by 11 days of home isolation.

Up till now a seven-day institutional quarantine was prescribed for those returning from Maharashtra, while there
was no mandatory institutional quarantine for asymptomatic people returning to Karnataka from other states. Those returning from states other than Maharashtra were asked to quarantine themselves at home.

“Those coming from Maharashtra are subjected to seven days of institutional quarantine followed by seven days of home quarantine, while those coming from Chennai and Delhi will have to go for three days of institutional quarantine and eleven days of home quarantine,” Yediyurappa said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said the decision has been taken following the increase in the number of coronavirus
cases from these states.

“It is because of returnees from other states the cases have increased, not because of the local (intra-state) movement, so we have to control people coming from outside, we have to quarantine them and have to tighten measures. We are making honest efforts in this regard,” he added.

Yediyurappa was speaking to reporters after chairing a meeting with top ministers and officials to discuss about
the surge in COVID cases in the state.

“There are no plans for any lockdown, and we will request the Prime Minister for more relaxations,” the Chief
Minister said in response to a question.

Out of total 7,000 cases in the state 4,386 are returnees from Maharashtra and their contacts are 1,340. Those who returned from abroad comprise 216.  Returnees from other states constitute- Delhi 87, Tamil Nadu 67, Gujarat 62.     Noting that there are indications that the coronavirus infections are expected to increase in the days to come, Yediyurappa assured people that the government will take all precautionary measures required, and appealed to people to cooperate, follow social distancing, and wear masks.

He said it has been decided to observe the coming Thursday as “mask days” by organising a walk across the state
and the main event will be held at Vidhana Soudha, the state secretariat.

“Strict measures will be taken against those not wearing masks and not maintaining social distancing here on.  Initially Rs 200 fine will be imposed, this will be throughout the state,” he said.