The Dasarathchand municipality has announced a 10-day lockdown, in wake of a sudden spike in COVID-19 cases.

The decision was taken by the municipal executive on Friday to shut down the municipality for ten days until December 8.

There are 18 active cases in the municipality area, with the risk of community infection on the rise leading to the decision of a lockdown, said deputy Mayor Mina Chand.

“The risk is also high as the municipality serves as the district headquarters too,” he said.

As a result, public transport comes to a halt with grocery and vegetable shops allowed to open only in the morning from 9:00 to 11:00 am.

All services from the municipality and its ward offices have been shut down. Likewise, anyone suffering from cold and cough including fever have been urged to visit the nearest health facility and have themselves tested for Corona Virus.

Financial institutions are allowed to open for three days a week on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Essential services including medical service will however remain open.