In response to an increase in coronavirus cases in Bengaluru, the Karnataka government placed Section 144 of the CrPC in the city limits beginning today. Furthermore, the state government has banned the operation of facilities such as swimming pools, gymnasiums, and party halls in apartment/residential complexes within Bengaluru city limits.

“Prohibit the operation of facilities such as Swimming Pools, Gymnasiums, Party Halls, and so on in apartment/residential complexes within the limits of Bengaluru City,” the Karnataka government ordered.

Prior to this, the Karnataka government had prohibited large-scale public gatherings and other events in Bengaluru in order to curb the virus’s dissemination.

“Rallies and protests for any reason by any party are banned across the city until April 20 in order to strictly comply with the Covid proper behavior,” city police commissioner Kamal Pant said in the order.

Bengaluru became an epicenter of the pandemic on Monday, registering 4,266 positive cases, bringing the city’s Covid total to 4,55,025, including 32,605 active cases and accounting for 26 of the 39 deaths caused by the virus.

“Public functions, community prayers, and any form of celebration in places of worship are also prohibited until April 20 in order to contain the infection,” Pant said.

According to a notification issued by the state chief secretary on Sunday, gyms and swimming pools will be permitted to operate at up to 50% of their size at any given time to ensure physical separation and avoid crowding.

“Pubs, bars, clubs, and restaurants will operate at 50% occupancy to ensure Covid acceptable behavior such as wearing a mask, keeping social distance, hand sanitizers, and thermal screening,” Pant was quoted as saying by IANS.

The order also directs shopping centers, markets, retail stores, and movie theatres to maintain strict adherence to the rules and that their clients or guests obey the Covid acceptable behavior.