The rise in the number of COVID-19 cases in India has pushed Sikkim to officially ban entry for all tourists into the state. Chief minister, Prem Singh Tamang, stated on March 17 that the entry of all foreign and domestic tourists into the state is now suspended. As a precautionary measure, public places such as educational institutes will also be shut in the state till April 15.
Details
According to some news reports, the Tourism Guest House at Rangpo will be converted into a quarantine centre and similar arrangements will be made at Melli.
All educational institutes and public places such as discos, casinos, gyms, fairs and festivals within state lines will remain closed till April 15.
Tamang has urged students to stay put in Sikkim and refrain from travelling outside, even if it means travelling to their home states.
So far, Sikkim has not reported any cases of coronavirus. The authorities have been ordered to store all essential commodities to avoid any shortage in the future. According to sources, a state-level task force has been set up to deal with the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
Meanwhile, in the northern part of the country, Ladakh has withdrawn Inner Line Permits (ILP) for all tourists and non-resident visitors from entering restricted areas in the region till further notice.
Among other states, Uttarakhand has now closed all its tiger reserves and national parks till further notice. For more information on steps taken by different states, click here.
Tripoto requests all the readers to stay indoors and stay safe.
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