Guardian minister warns of mini lockdowns in Mumbai

BMC marshals during the drive against the mask-less in Marine Drive on Sunday. Pic/Ashish Raje

Guardian Minister for suburban Mumbai Aslam Shaikh has warned of a partial lockdown if people continue to violate COVID-19 protocols amid sharply increasing cases in the city. He said the restrictions may come if the spike continues and pubs, restaurants would be the first targets.

People seen at Marine Drive on Sunday evening. Pic/Ashish Raje

Shaikh said local authorities have been empowered to take decisions on lockdown as and when deemed necessary.

According to him, night clubs and pubs would be the first to face shutdown and night curfew may be imposed yet again. "Public places like beaches and monuments may also be closed as a precautionary measure if cases continue to rise," he said. He added that people are being fined for not wearing masks.

On the other hand, CM Uddhav Thackeray, too, held a meeting with senior officials on Monday, asking them to use their power to impose lockdown, if necessary. Shaikh was part of the meeting.

Shaikh said the officers have been asked to verify whether restrictions on travel need to be placed. "People often travel from Mumbai to Pune and Mumbai to Thane. Officers have been asked to check if restrictions on travel are needed," he said.