Himachal makes negative RT-PCR report mandatory for tourists entering state

Tribune News Service

Shimla, August 4

In view of the increasing Covid cases in the state, Himachal Pradesh has made negative RT-PCR report mandatory for tourists entering the state.

The Disaster Management Cell of the Revenue Department on Wednesday issued an advisory recommending Covid-appropriate behaviour. It has been recommended that an RT-PCR negative report not older than 72 hours should be carried by those visiting the state for tourism.

Those carrying Covid vaccine certificates, one or both jabs, will be allowed to enter the state.

These restrictions will remain in force till further orders.

It has been recommended that Covid-appropriate behaviour be adopted. The government has admitted that there had been a surge in cases due to irresponsible behaviour, especially in public transport and at gatherings.

Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Wednesday said that in view of the spike in Covid cases, some restrictions are likely to be put in place and a final decision will be taken by the cabinet at its meeting on August 9.

He added that the Covid situation was discussed by the cabinet on Tuesday and it was felt that some restrictions would have to be put in place.

Sources said the RT-PCR report would be mandatory only for tourists and not for locals. Those who have had both Covid vaccines will  be allowed to enter without an RT-PCR report.

The total active cases in the state which had dipped to 800 have now crossed 1,400 with almost 200 new cases being added daily.