KATHMANDU: Government Spokesperson Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dr. Yubaraj Khatiwada has said that the government will not opt for a nationwide lockdown immediately.

He said the local administration could enforce prohibitory order or other action to stem the spread of coronavirus.

Speaking at a press conference at the Ministry on Thursday, Minister Khatiwada said that the service delivery may have to be stopped in high-risk areas but a nationwide lockdown will not be clamped.

“The government has not thought of enforcing a nationwide lockdown just like that in March,” he clarified amidst rumors that the government is enforcing another lockdown to control the spread of coronavirus.

Minister Khatiwada said that the public has been barred from entering Singha Dubar, the main administrative block, due to the increased risk of infection in Kathmandu.

He stated that the current situation is not favorable for resuming long-distance transport and domestic and international flights, adding that a meeting of Cabinet will decide soon.

The government had announced resuming long-haul transport and flights from August 17.