RIYADH — The authorities in the Kingdom have eased a coronavirus lockdown in the Qatif region, allowing people to move in and out of the city during daytime hours.

“Entry into and exit from the Qatif Governorate will be allowed while continuing public movement during the day from nine in the morning until five in the evening (from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.),” Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday citing an official source at the Interior Ministry.

The measure, which comes into effect on Thursday, is based on the recommendations of health authorities, however, precautionary measures to preserve the safety and health of citizens and residents will remain in place.

Qatif was placed under lockdown on March 8 as part of the Kingdom’s efforts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Kingdom has so far recorded 21,402 coronavirus cases with 1,325 new cases being reported on Wednesday. — SG