Sikkim state government has imposed a 10-day lockdown starting May 6. The notification issued by State Home Department informs, “The average test positivity for COVID 19 cases in the State has been more than 20% in the last ten days, owing to which, it is felt that there is an urgent need to impose restrictions on the movement of persons within the State”.

Entry of all persons and passenger vehicles, including private and government vehicles, through all check posts located at state borders in Rangpo, Melli, Reshi, Rammam, NTPC (West Sikkim) shall be stopped.

The restriction shall not be applied to the movement of Army and security personnel vehicles, essential and commercial goods carrying vehicles, or for medical emergencies. For commercial goods vehicle, only the driver shall be allowed to enter through the checkpoints. The good vehicles must exit on the same day.

The inter-district movement of persons or private and government vehicles shall also be prohibited, mentions the lockdown notification. Similar relaxation as for inter-state movement of army or security personnel, medical emergencies and commercial goods vehicle will be allowed. The evidence of such urgencies shall have to be presented for inspection to the police personnel on duty.

All government offices and PSUs shall continue to remain closed till May 16, as against the earlier ruling on lockdown expiring on May 7. Government vehicles shall be restricted as before, except for emergency duties.