Indian capital imposes night curfew until April 30

The authorities of Indian capital have announced a night curfew across the city until April 30 in the wake of a relentless surge in Covid-19 cases.

The "sudden increase in Covid-19 cases" and "high positivity rate" meant a night curfew was needed, the New Delhi state government said in its order, reports NDTV.

During night curfew hours, those going for vaccinations and the movement of essential services will be allowed with e-passes, officials said.

Private doctors, nurses, other medical staff and journalists will be allowed on the streets with ID cards. Exceptions will also be made for pregnant women and those needing treatment.

Those travelling to or from the airport, train and bus stations will be allowed on the road if they produce their tickets. 

This is the toughest order by the Delhi government since the start of a fresh surge in coronavirus infections in the capital, home to 25 million people.

The night curfew was being enforced to check the movement of people, not essential services, the Delhi government said.

New Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had on Friday said Delhi was going through the fourth wave of COVID-19 but a lockdown was not being considered yet.

"As per the current situation, we are not considering imposing a lockdown. We are closely monitoring the situation and such a decision will only be taken after due public consultation," he had told reporters.

On Monday, Delhi recorded 3,548 new cases, still below its peak of nearly 9,000 in November, when it was one of the worst-hit cities across the nation.