Maharashtra: Tope against lockdown, keen on RT-PCR test price review

PUNE: State health minister Rajesh Tope on Saturday said that he is against future Covid-19 lockdowns. The chief minister is yet to make an announcement on the matter, but Tope said with unlocks on, it is now up to citizens to ensure health precautions are maintained.
The minister was responding to rumours of possible curbs such as night curfews in high-incidence districts such as Pune.

“There has been no decision yet, but there should not be a lockdown. However, some restrictions — if required — may be introduced to check the increase in cases in some regions,” Tope said.
He said he is also keen on capping the price of the Covid RT-PCR test. The Supreme Court on Tuesday had sought the Centre’s response on a plea which asked if the price of these tests could be limited to Rs 400 across the country.
The health minister said the state has reviewed prices three times and was willing to review it further to increase testing levels.
Last month, the state had revised the RT-PCR testing cost to a minimum of Rs 980, from Rs 1,200. “Cost should not be an issue. We will again carry out an audit and decide on a new rate. States are charging different prices, but Maharashtra took the lead on reducing the price,” he said.
The petition on capping the price of RT-PCR tests at Rs 400 had said testing centres were charging citizens exorbitant sums for a vital service.
Tope said, “This is not right. I agree that if there is a need to review and revise the price even more, we should do so immediately.”
He added that he has directed all collectors and local officials to increase Covid testing in their districts to reach a target of 1.5 lakh daily tests in the state.
Labs should increase capacity from the current 50% to 90%, he said.