Bengal extends covid restrictions till June 15

Mamata Banerjee on Thursday announced that the lockdown in the state would continue for another 15 days until the government reviews it again on June 15.

"Though the infection rate has reduced, the state government has decided to continue on with the restrictions for another 15 days. We are thankful that the people have cooperated with us, and we have started getting good results, but I urge the people to bear the hardship for a little longer. We will review the situation on June 15 and then decide the next course of action," Banerjee said.

Announcing relaxations in certain sectors, Banerjee said, "There have been several requests from Punjab, and so we have decided to increase the workforce in jute industry from 30 per cent to 40 per cent, but they will have to adhere to all the Covid norms. The construction workers can also go to work provided they have proper vaccination. It is the responsibility of the employers to vaccinate their employees from private places. If they are vaccinated, then they can join the work." However, "The rest of the conditions, as declared before, will prevail," she added.