June is crucial in fight against COVID-19: Odisha CM

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday said June is going to be crucial in fight against COVID-19 in the state.

He appealed to people to remain indoors and follow the lockdown norms to contain the spread of coronavirus.

"Relaxation of lockdown does not mean coronavirus has disappeared. Don't make that mistake. As I had said earlier, the month of June will be the most crucial in our fight against the virus," said the Chief Minister in a video message.

In view of the return of 5 lakh persons from outside the state and the advent of monsoon, everyone has to be more careful, he added.

He said the impact of the 5 lakh migrant workers who returned to the state would come down in the next 15-20 days.

He appealed to the people not to step out of home if not necessary.

He said by shutdown and night curfew, the people would observe restraint for about 17 days in the month.

Giving the break-up, he said two-day shutdown in a week would mean 8 days in the month and night curfew of 10 hours a day means 300 hours in the month.

Notably, the state government has decided to impose shutdown on Saturdays and Sundays in June in 11 districts of the state to contain the spread of coronavirus.

"Wear masks while going out and maintain social distancing," said Patnaik.

He advised persons above 65 years of age, persons with comorbidities, pregnant women, children below the age of 10 years to stay at home.