With a noticeable sharp decline in the rate of coronavirus infection in Rajasthan, the Chief Minister, on Monday, issued orders to lift the night curfew clamping state capital Jaipur and 12 other districts. Meanwhile, the cost of RT-PCR covid tests has also been reduced to ₹500, from the earlier ₹800 as cases are now emerging at a staggering rate in the state. Other relaxations have also been offered to districts in a graded, phased manner, however, the CM has stressed that it would be necessary to abide by the other health protocols to further curb the infection.
COVID infection staggers in Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s coronavirus infection graph has witnessed a sharp dip, bringing respite to the state from the ever-rising rate of infection. As a result, the night curfew in the state’s 13 districts, namely Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Kota, Bhilwara, Nagaur, Pali, Tonk, Sikar, Ajmer, Alwar, Shriganganagar and Udaipur has been withdrawn. “In the Covid-19 review meeting, it has been decided to end the night curfew in the state and give some relaxations in a phased manner. However, it will be necessary to follow health protocols otherwise the infection rate may increase,” the CM said in a tweet.
Preventive protocols were enforced in these districts earlier on account of a spike in COVID cases after Diwali. Under its provision, it was mandatory for all shops and restaurants to shut down by 7 PM, to honour the 10-hour long night curfew, from 8 PM to 6 AM.
Initially, the night curfew was imposed in 8 districts post-Diwali which was increased to 13 districts after the Covid numbers witnessed a sudden spike. Many trading associations were pressing for the lifting of the curfew.
On Monday, the state reported 213 Covid cases and three deaths, which were recorded in Jaipur, Jodhpur and Kota. Out of the 213 cases, Kota reported 41 cases, followed by 23 cases in Jaipur and 22 in Jodhpur. As per reports, Churu, Dholpur, Karauli, Sawai Madhopur and Sirohi didn’t report any fresh case.