Uddhav Thackeray said the number of cases in Maharashtra may rise as we resume economic activity but the state will follow the “Chase the Virus” strategy
MUMBAI| On Sunday Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray said that despite its progress in tackling COVID-19, the crisis is not over yet and urged the people of the state to follow rules and ensure the lockdown is not re-imposed.
Uddhav Thackeray while addressing the state said, “In the last 15 days we have cautiously and gradually started reopening shops and offices, we have started local [train] services for essential staff in Mumbai and small shops and businesses in rural parts of the state, but the pandemic still looms over our heads. Just because we are slowly starting the economy doesn’t mean the danger is averted. I request you to please step out only if you have necessary work.”
Thackeray further said, “We cannot leave this war halfway in this final phase. The crisis is not over yet. I am sure that you will continue to co-operate with the government to ensure that the lockdown is not re-imposed.”
The ShivSena leader said the number of cases in Maharashtra may rise as the state resumes economic activity after a crippling three-months lockdown, but the state will follow the “Chase the Virus” strategy with increasing testing and pre-emptive measures that have helped slow down the surge in Mumbai.
Thackeray said, “Tests and testing centres are being increased. Rapid testing kits are being used to conduct tests,” also requesting those who have recovered to come forward and donate their blood plasma which contains antibodies that can help cure those who are fighting the disease.
Thackeray further said he also wanted to thank all religious communities for showing restraint during the lockdown that included several festivals.
“Soon Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated and I have asked the Ganesh Mandals to restrict the height of the idol to four feet. This will help in maintaining social distance as larger idols need more hands to move it,” he said.
Thackeray added, “This year, the Warkaris have also shown patience by celebrating the Wari on a low key. When I go to Pandharpur as your representative, I will pray to Lord Vithoba to show his power to destroy Corona and ensure a disease-free world.”
“Similarly, I want to thank Dahi Handi Mandals, for cancelling Dahi Handi festival on their own volition,” the Chief Minister said.
Maharashtra, which has the highest number of coronavirus cases in India, reported 5,318 new patients on Saturday, taking its count to nearly 1.6 lakh while the number of deaths climbed to 7,273 with 167 new fatalities.
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