THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that there is a rapid spread of Covid in the state. "The death rate in Kerala has been controlled. It is expected that 70 percent of people will be vaccinated in 23 months.The vaccine provided by the Centre was used by the state without waste", he said.

The CM also said that shops would be open on Monday as part of Bakrid in areas including where there is a triple lockdown. Electronic shops and other repair shops will be allowed in A and B category areas. It will be allowed to open from Monday to Friday. Up to 40 people will be admitted to the places of worship during special days. The CM said that only those who have received the first dose of the vaccine will be allowed to do so.

Film shooting will be allowed in A and B category places. But there will be strict control. Only those who have taken at least one dose of vaccine can work. The government has also given permission to open hostels for engineering and polytechnics.