Karnataka to finalise lockdown exit strategy by April 13

Karnataka government is currently engd in discussions with experts, specialists and or stakeholders to decide on its lockdown exit strategy and would take a final view by April 13, a key Minister said on Thursday.

"Day after tomorrow we have a VC (videoconference) with Prime Minister," Medical Education Minister Sudhakar K, who is in-charge of all matters related to COVID-19, ted when asked about States strategy.

He said a task force of specialist doctors on Wednesday submitted its report to government, giving its recommendations.

"We are meeting lot of stakeholders of society taking ir views," Minister said, adding, Cabinet would also hold discussions.

"Finally, day after tomorrow, after discussing with Prime Minister during VC, government will take a view on this by April 13 or so. As of w, we have t taken any view on it. We are studying all reports," Sudhakar told PTI.

Minister observed that COVID-19 cases were slowly spiking in India but t multiplying way y have in some or countries like Italy, Spain and United States as government had declared 21-day national lockdown early and taken or strict measures. "Let's see for one week and see."

"We need to fight this out collectively and by strictly following quarantine methods and social distancing," Sudhakar stressed.

Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa had on Wednesday said his government was in favour of lifting lock-down in districts which remained free from COVID-19 after April 14 subject to approval from Centre.

"If Prime Minister suggests to States to take decision (on lock-down) based on situation in ir respective States, my position is to take a call (on roll- back) in districts free from COVID-19," he had said.

"This is to allow people to go about ir business and move about within district and t from one district to ar, after April 14, after taking approval of Prime Minister."

According to State officials, as many as 12 districts continue to remain free from COVID-19. task force has recommended continuation of lockdown at "hot spots" beyond April 14. It has suggested that schools and colleges be shut till May 31, while n-air-conditioned shops can be opened. Also, IT/BT companies, government offices providing essential services and factories can function with 50 per cent staff, task force said in its recommendations for 15-day period after April 14.