Srinagar, July 22: In view of the rising Covid-19 cases the Jammu and Kashmir, the government on Wednesday has announced a strict lockdown till July 29. According to official sources, the decision on relaxation and lockdown will depend on the status of Covid-19 in the union territory.

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The lockdown has been re-imposed by the state government  in the wake of spurt in Covid-19 related cases and deaths. Officials said that from today (22 July) onwards till July 29, strict lockdown will remain in place to prevent the further spread of Covid-19 pandemic. The official added,  “Further decisions about continuation or announcing relaxation will be taken depending on how the situation would pan out”.

Since Unlock-2, Covid-19 positive cases have surged in J&K with almost 15,258 cases being reported and 270 people losing lives due to the infection. Many health experts and civil society members urged the government to re-impose the lockdown to prevent the community spread of the virus.

Leading medics have cautioned that the deadly virus was already in the community stage and it was time to take precautions including wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.

Active Covid-19 cases in country stand at 4,11,133, while 7,53,049 people have recovered. In last 24 hours, a record 28,472 patients were declared cured of Covid-19.

J&K is not the first one to impose restrictions as other states including Bihar, Kolkata have also extended restrictions in the wake of surging cases.

“Single-day spike of 37,724 Covid-19 cases, 648 deaths pushes India's virus caseload to 11,92,915, death toll to 28,732,” the health ministry said.

The second worst-hit state, Tamil Nadu has reported 1,80,643 Covid-19 cases so far while Delhi has reported 1,25,096 cases, according to the Ministry.

Other states that have witnessed a higher number of Covid-19  positive cases include, Andhra Pradesh with 58,668 cases, Karnataka with 71,069 while Telangana has reported 47,705 Covid-19  positive cases.