MUMBAI: Chief minister

on Thursday called on the people Maharashtra to limit celebrations during Holi to avoid spread of

, which has entered into the country in states like Rajasthan, Karnataka and Kerala.

Replying to the discussions in assembly, the CM said the virus had become a cause of concern not only for state but also globally. “Next 8-10 days are crucial and we all need to take precautions. The citizens should avoid mass gatherings and toned down the Holi celebrations. They should also wear masks if possible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already declared that he wouldn’t be playing Holi in wake of this disease.”

Allaying the fears due to virus that emanated from China, the Thackeray scion said there was no need to worry as not a single case was detected in the state. “However, the government is taking all precautions to spread awareness. Instructions are given to all concerned departments to take preventive measures on the war footing.”

Thanking legislators for raising the important issue in the house, the CM said the government had started preparations in this regard from one month since the outbreak of the virus that has sent shockwaves across the globe. “Earlier, there was only one lab National Institute of Virology (NIV), now we have created facilities at Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur to test the suspected patients and treat them there only. Also adequate number of mask and medicines have been made available to fight this endemic. Additionally, all private hospitals were directed to keep ready isolation wards to treat corona patients if detected and quarantine them.”

Lamenting that sufficient facilities were not being created by successive governments for all these years to tackle with such diseases, particularly in rural areas, Thackeray said there was need to encourage the people to fight this menace.

“It’s being noted that this virus survives in cold temperatures, but in state, we use air conditioners where it may still last. We’ve instructed officials to spread awareness and also on wearing masses likes N-95 which was used during Swine Flu outbreak. Directives are given to cleaners working at international airports in Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur to take precautions while working in the international flight to avoid getting contracted from the virus.”

Assuring all MLAs that he will convene a meeting of them with state health officials to pass on necessary instructions, the CM reiterated that efforts were underway to tackle the virus and even media’s help was also sought to spread the awareness. “The five star hotels were told to screen their guests from abroad. The airports are facing staff shortage for screening the passengers, so the government is making efforts to provide more manpower to them,” he said.