Coronavirus lockdown: Centre may allow states to transport migrants

The Centre may issue an advisory to the states to screen the migrant workers and open up road transportation lines for them

The Centre is considering allowing state governments to transport migrant workers who are unable to return to their villages owing to a countrywide lockdown, imposed to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). According to a plan in the works, the central government may issue guidelines to the states to screen such workers and open road transportation for them.
 

The 21-day lockdown, which came into force on Wednesday, has triggered an exodus of migrant workers from many cities. The government has drawn flak for not providing transportation and other facilities, with a large number of them heading home on foot.