New Delhi, May 1 (IANS): Hours after the government on Friday extended the nationwide lockdown to combat the spread of novel coronavirus (Covid-19), Indian Railways said that it has suspended the passenger, mail and express train services till May 17, officials said.

Rajesh Dutt Bajpai, Executive Director in a statement said, "In continuation of the measures taken in the wake of COVID-19, it has been decided that the cancellation of all passenger train services on Indian Railways shall be extended till May 17."

He said, "However , movement of migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places shall be carried out by Shramik Specials, as required by the state governments, in terms of the guidelines issued by Union Home Ministry."

The national transporter has earlier suspended the passenger, mail and express train services until further notice. It has also stopped booking of train tickets until further notice.

However, freight and special parcel trains are in service to ensure the supply of the essential items across the country. Earlier in the day, the government announced extension of the lockdown by two more weeks, with effect from May 4 to contain the Covid-19 outbreak.

The third phase of the lockdown will continue till May 17, and was announced ahead of the lockdown 2.0 ending on May 3. The government took the decision after a comprehensive review, and in view of the lockdown measures having led to significant gains in the Covid-19 situation in the country.