Mumbai had so far imposed a few curbs that included ban on large gatherings at night.
Maharashtra announced a series of fresh restrictions as it logged 41,434 new Covid cases on Saturday -- marginally higher than Friday -- as the highly infectious Omicron variant continued its rampage through the country. Thirteen people died in the last 24 hours – five of them in Mumbai. The country's financial capital reported 20,318 cases in the last 24 hours -- a shade lower than yesterday's 20,971.
The health department had earlier said a lockdown will be considered when the demand for medical oxygen crosses 800 metric tonnes per day, or more than 40 per cent of hospital beds for Covid patients are occupied.
"We again stand at a juncture where we are battling a COVID wave. Without discussing how dangerous this new variant may or may not be, let us ensure the safety of one another. I earnestly request you to get vaccinated & mask up as it is the most effective way to fight the virus," tweeted Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, who took a final call on the issue.
"I reiterate that we want to curtail unnecessary crowding but not impose any lockdown. The fact is that no restrictions will be effective unless we all adhere to COVID protocols. I request you to be vigilant about the symptoms and seek medical advice at the earliest," read a second tweet from the Chief Minister.
The state has barred gatherings of more than five people and will allow only vaccinated people on public transport. Schools and colleges will remain closed till February 15.
Shopping malls, market complexes will work with 50 per cent capacity and will be closed between 10 pm and 8 am. The 50 per cent rule will also apply to cinema halls, where night and morning shows have been banned.
Hair salons, sports complexes, swimming pools, gyms, spas and wellness centres have been shut..
Government offices should opt for work from home and working hours should be staggered if people have to go to office, the government circular said. Private offices have also been asked to allow work from home and stagger working hours.
The government has also capped the attendance at marriages and social, religious, cultural or political gatherings at 50. Only 20 people will be allowed at funerals.
Mumbai had so far imposed a few curbs that included ban on large gatherings at night and closure of educational institutions.
The positivity rate has been zooming since December 21. But the need for hospitalization and oxygen support is low, state health minister Rajesh Tope has said.