MALKANGIRI, July 13 -- Strict lockdown would be imposed in the Malkangiri Municipality area and Balimela NAC for six days from the midnight of July 13 to the midnight of July 19, the district administration said.

During the period, no public transport services including operation of taxis and auto-rickshaws would be permitted. The exception would include transport of all kinds to and from hospitals.

People have been advised to stay indoors and come out only for basic services while strictly following the social distancing guideline.

However, essential services such as police, health, fire, electricity, water supply, banks/ATMs, media, telecom and internet, postal, e-commerce delivery of essential goods, food, groceries milk booths, fruit...