Chhattisgarh public health and family welfare minister TS Singhdeo on Wednesday said the state government was in  favour to extend the lockdown period for another 14 days.

Singhdeo’s statement came amid discussions across the country over the possibility of extending the nation-wide lockdown as few states are in favour and while others are against extending the lockdown.

Interacting with media persons, Singhdeo said, the state government has sought the opinion from the health department regarding the extension of the lockdown.

“We have suggested for further extending the lockdown for 14 days. Because, there is no other option left, other than an extension,” he said.

The minister further said that at present a war-like situation has not cropped up but it cannot be ruled out in the near future.

“It is good that the state has reported only 10 positive patients out of which nine have fully recovered. The remaining patient’s  health is stable and better but it does not mean that we can sit back and relax,” he said.

“If experts are to be believed, a war-like situation against the disease might start in the last week of April or the first week of May.

“Once the quarantine period comes to an end only then we will come to know if we have won the fight or not.”

The health minister on  the arrangement to combat the coronavirus outbreak  in the state,  said: “Since January,  preparations are continuously underway and being bettered every passing day. In the   coming 10 days,  dedicated Covid-19 facilities will be set up at all the divisional      headquarters hospitals.

“That is by the time the crucial  period of April ends, we hope that all the set-up in the state will be read,” he  added.