Bhutan conducts mass testing in capital to ease lockdown

Source: Xinhua| 2021-01-25 21:36:44|Editor: huaxia

THIMPHU, Jan. 25 (Xinhua) -- Another mass testing for COVID-19 is underway in Thimphu city of Bhutan since January 25.

This screening is the second mass testing within a week, which was conducted to ensure the capital city's safe transition from yellow stage to green zone.

"This mass testing will help rule out any residual cases in the community," said Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, adding that the mass screening will conclude on January 28.

It will also allow authorities to fully ease the lockdown. The capital city has been placed under a complete lockdown following community transmissions from December 20, 2020.

The rest of the country also underwent lockdown three days after the lockdown in Thimphu city, but was eased gradually since January 9, and declared green zones after mass community screening.

Residents within Thimphu city have been allowed to move within their respective zones since January 15. Businesses and offices are expected to open from the beginning of next month.

The Education Ministry announced that the schools will open next month. Enditem

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