Maharashtra government will conduct surprise test of passengers coming from abroad

Nagpur: In view of the threat from the new BF-7 Covid-19 variant, the Maharashtra government has decided to take precautionary measures on Thursday to stop its spread in the state.

The BJP-Shiv Sena (Balasaheb) government has taken a policy decision to conduct surprise thermal testing of 2% of passengers arriving in the state by international flights from Monday. It urged children and senior citizens to wear masks, and avoid crowded places and has also decided to issue an advisory to maintain social distancing of 5-10 feet as per earlier norms.

Having said that there is no need to panic, either way, health minister Tanaji Sawant has also informed the assembly that the government has decided to implement a five-pronged strategy which includes tracking, treatment, testing, vaccination, and Covid and COVID-related behavior.

“We need not worry at all as almost 95% of the population in the state has been vaccinated. The decisions were taken today during a meeting on the threat of new Coronavirus, which was attended by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Later this advisory was also discussed in the cabinet meeting.” he said.

Government has instructed the health department officials to take precautions

Stating that the government had already sent instructions to all municipal corporations and councils, metros, and megacities to be vigilant, Health Minister Tanaji Sawant has also said that the government has also instructed the health department officials to take precautions.

“I also reiterate that there is absolutely no need to panic, and the government is only taking precautionary measures. If the central government comes up with some guidelines, then the CM and deputy CM will also direct us to take further action,” he said.

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