The Meghalaya Government has decided to close schools in Shillong and adjoining areas for a period of 14 days owing to the rising cases of COVID-19 in the State.
The surge of COVID19 cases in Meghalaya during the second wave of the pandemic is six times higher compared to last year, especially in Shillong city.
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This has compelled the Meghalaya Government to call for a total closure of schools from classes KG to XII in areas under Shillong agglomeration for 14 days.
Schools in and around Shillong will remain closed from April 20 (Tuesday) till May 3.
Also read: COVID-19 crisis: Meghalaya bans entry of tourists into State
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However, examinations for class X and class XII under Meghalaya Board of Secondary Education (MBoSE) will be held as per scheduled announced, but under close watch.
The decision was taken after a COVID-19 review meeting in Shillong on Monday, which was chaired by Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma.
Conrad Sangma said that last year it took 144 days for COVID-19 cases to touch 665 mark in the State, but now the rise of cases in the second wave, is six times higher than last year.
The number of COVID-19 positive cases in Meghalaya was recorded at 680 between March 23 and April 17.
Also read: If COVID-19 cases rise exponentially, lockdown will be imposed in State: Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal
Meanwhile, following the spike in number of COVID-19 cases across the country, Meghalaya has imposed a ban on entry of tourists into the State.
Restrictions on entry of tourists from outside Meghalaya will come into force from April 23.
However, the tourism sector will continue to operate for local tourists.
“This will be applicable for the next 14 days, but local visitors within the state will be able to visit some of the tourists’ destinations. There will be closure of certain tourist locations which see a lot of gathering. We are giving liberty to the deputy commissioner to decide certain tourist locations which are crowded. Places that we cannot control the gathering, we will be closing those areas,” he said.