NEW DELHI, Jan. 4 (Xinhua) -- The local government in northern Indian state of Punjab on Tuesday announced the closure of schools and colleges, besides imposition of night curfew to restrict public movement in the wake of surge in COVID-19 cases.
The fresh curbs were announced after Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi chaired a review meeting to take stock of the COVID-19 situation in the state.
According to the new order issued on Tuesday, all educational institutions, including schools, colleges and universities, shall remain shut for offline classes while virtual classes will continue. Medical and nursing colleges, however, have been permitted to function normally.
"Movement of individuals for all non-essential activities shall remain prohibited between 10:00 p.m. (local time) to 5:00 a.m. (local time) within municipal limits of all cities and towns of Punjab," read the order. "The district authorities are accordingly asked to issue prohibitory orders and ensure strict compliance."
The new set of restrictions, according to the directive, will remain in force until Jan. 15.
The fresh curbs have been imposed in the middle of a high-pitch local elections campaign marked by crowded rallies and political meetings.
However, so far no restrictions have been announced regarding political meetings or rallies.
Local elections are likely to be held in the state in February or March this year.
According to data from the health ministry, COVID-19 cases in Punjab have been rapidly rising and during the past 24 hours, 419 cases have been reported from across the state. Enditem