Maharashtra Covid Surge 'Worrisome', Says Govt; Lists Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Thane As New Hotspots

Health Ministry today said that Nagpur, Pune, Thane, Mumbai, Bengaluru Urban, Ernakulam, Amravati, Jalgaon, Nashik and Aurangabad have the highest number of active COVID-19 cases. 

(Representative Image/ AFP)

Mumbai: Amid the rising cases of Coronavirus in several states, including Maharashtra, the Union government on Thursday cautioned people to remain "careful and watchful" and not lower their guards as the pandemic is not over yet. At a press conference, NITI Aayog member (Health) V K Paul termed the alarming situation, especially in Maharashtra, 'worrisome'.

During the presser, Paul also referred to the lockdown imposed in Nagpur from March 15 to 21 to say, "We are reaching a situation where these approaches (to tackle the spread of COVID-19) are being brought back."

"We are very worried about the rise in cases in Maharashtra. Don't take this virus for granted. It can come up unexpectedly. If we have to remain free of this virus, COVID-appropriate behaviour, containment strategy as well as vaccination has to be brought in," Paul said.

Even the Health Ministry today said Nagpur, Pune, Thane, Mumbai, Bengaluru Urban, Ernakulam, Amravati, Jalgaon, Nashik and Aurangabad districts have the highest number of active COVID-19 cases. 

There were 36,917 active cases on February 11 which has now surged passed the one lakh mark. Likewise, Punjab that had around 2,100 active cases during the same time, is now touching 9,400 mark.

"Be careful, be watchful. We still have a huge population at risk of this virus. This pandemic is not yet over. Be vigilant," Paul said adding that today, using the force of vaccination, we are in a position to give even a stronger fight (to the pandemic). We plead again, do not lower your guard and please embrace the vaccines that are available.

Hours after Nagpur administration announced a complete lockdown due to significant surge in daily Covid-19 cases, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray warned that more parts of the state might go into lockdown if rules are not followed.