Batumi and Kutaisi cities to reopen tomorrow after 20-day coronavirus lockdown

The cities of Batumi and Kutaisi, which were put on lockdown on April 15 to contain the spread of COVID-19, will reopen tomorrow, Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia stated earlier today. 

Tbilisi and Rustavi will remain on lockdown for some time, Gakharia said, adding that the restrictions may be lifted by the end of the week. 

Lifting the restrictions for Batumi and Kutaisi means that vehicles will be allowed to leave or enter the cities. 

However, the nationwide curfew between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. remains in force. 

Gakharia said that the Georgian government has resumed work in a normal regime and the state may lift various, coronavirus-related restrictions earlier than outlined in the six-phase plan to open the economy.

• Gov't outlines 6-phase plan to reopen the Georgian economy

As of now we are fighting two battles: one to contain the spread of the coronavirus and the another - to help the state economy,” Gakharia said. 

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia says that the situation in the country in terms of the coronavirus allows the government to lift various restrictions. Photo: Interior Ministry press office.

Gakharia instructed governors to ensure local populations are informed regarding the steps taken by the government during the crisis. 

He stated that all citizens of Georgia, including ethnic minorities, must have information regarding the benefits offered by the government, as well as lifting or imposing various restrictions. 

Georgia reported four new cases of coronavirus earlier today, bringing the total number of cases in the country to 593. 

223 of the 593 patients have recovered, while nine others have died. 

As of today 359 people remain infected with COVID-19 in Georgia.