The Bihar government on Tuesday announced that the complete lockdown in the state will be extended from July 16 to July 31 due to a surge in coronavirus cases, reported PTI. Essential services, however, will be exempted.

The Union health ministry has confirmed a total of 17,959 cases and 160 deaths. Of these, 5,482 people are being treated, and 12,317 people have recovered.

Over 15 districts, including capital Patna, are currently under lockdown for different time periods. Patna, Bhagalpur and Begusarai are the worst-hit districts in the state.

Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi said the 15-day lockdown will remain in place at all municipal, district, sub divisional and block headquarters level. “The government has taken a decision to this effect...corona has neither any vaccine nor any medicine,” he added.

Modi also said that as many as 24 Bharatiya Janata Party workers have tested positive for the coronavirus.

All educational institutions, religious places and shopping malls will remain closed till July-end. Farming and construction-related activities are allowed during this period.

Follow today’s live updates of the coronavirus pandemic here.