Kolkata, March 22 (IANS): The West Bengal government on Sunday ordered complete lockdown of Kolkata, six districts and municipal and district towns besides some rural areas in other parts of the state from 5 p.m. on Monday to Friday midnight to combat the spread of coronavirus.

The order was given under the West Bengal Epidemic Disease's COVID-19 regulations, 2020, framed according to relevant sections of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897.

"The government of West Bengal hereby notifies 'complete safety restriction' with effect from 5 pm on March 23 to midnight of March 27", said the order, which would come into effect across identified urban and rural areas for prevention and containment of coronavirus.

The order stipulates complete restrictions on public transport services including operation of taxis and auto-rickshaws, closure of all shots, commercial establishments, offices and factories, workshops and warehouses.

"All foreign returnees and other such persons so required by the health personnel are directed to remain under strict home quarantine for a period as directed by the local health authorities," it said.

The order issued by the Chief Secretary also asked people to stay at home and come out only for basic services while strictly following the social distancing guidelines.

The government prohibited congregation of more than seven persons in public places and warned that violators would be punished under section 188 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code.