The Mizoram government on Monday closed the State’s lone Lengpui airport from mid-night until further order, an official said.
This came in the wake of Centre’s decision to cease operation of domestic flights barring cargo-carrying flights from Tuesday mid-night.
The official said the decision was made by the high-level meeting as a precautionary measure to contain and prevent the spread of novel coronavirus.
He said Lengpui airport will be closed from 11:30 on Monday to prevent movement of passengers.
Also read: Assam govt measures for smooth management of coronavirus situation
Mizoram has only one airport located at Lengpui near Aizawl.
Three airlines – Air India, IndiGo and GoAir are currently operating to the State.
Earlier, on Sunday GoAir has suspended operation in the wake of coronavirus pandemic.
The Centre on Monday decided that all domestic commercial flights will cease to operate from Tuesday mid-night.
All airlines are instructed to reach their destination before 23:59 hours on March 24.
The restriction, however, will not apply to cargo carrying flights.
Meanwhile, Mizoram’s apex students’ body Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) on Monday asked the State Government to completely seal all entry points along its inter-state border.
Entry to Mizoram is opened at Vairengte on the state border with Assam and Lengpui airport till Monday.
A statement issued by the students’ body said all inter-state borders should also be closed to prevent movement of passengers.
It also asked Mizo students, who are languishing outside the State to stay back at their respective places and not to come to Mizoram in order to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
While lauding the State Government for its preventive measures, the MZP also asked it to give utmost concern to the medical team, who are conducting screening at Vairengte along the state border with Assam.