Lockdown cannot be lifted in one go; has to be done in phases: Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope

Tope said, "In Mumbai the total positive cases are 469. There are 500 odd teams which have been deputed for containment areas. There are more than 210 containment zones in Mumbai and we are now concerned about the congested areas like Dharavi, Koliwada etc. In these congested zones we are on a high alert and we are taking utmost care to ensure that no crowds gather in these areas."

He added, "Through CCTVs and control room we are watching these areas 24X7. There are special teams that are being allocated, the police is also ensuring that there are no crowds gathering at any cost, not more than two- three people should be seen at a time at any cost in these area, that is the main focus."

Speaking about the exit strategy from the lockdown, Tope said, "We are confident that since the measures have been taken long back, there should not be a spike in positive cases. Although, there could be a spike after 30 days as seen in China, Italy etc. So we are expecting the numbers to increase a little here and there, but we are very much confident that the measures of lockdown have been taken in the right time."

"We have also ensured strict adherence to the lockdown like there should not be crowd on the road, social distancing should be maintained and people should be at their respective homes at all times."

He continued, "If the lockdown is to be lifted, all the population cannot be allowed to come on the street at one go, we have to make it happen in a segregated manner and there is a protocol for that according to the advisories of government of India and WHO wherein not many communicable diseases outbreaks have been witnessed. So accordingly we will obey the advisories of government of India. However, if the number of positive cases keep increasing until April 15, then we will have to think whether to extend the lockdown in a staggered manner."