<span style="color: #222222;">In Sikkim, the State government today announced a complete lockdown in Gangtok Municipal Area during the period from 21st to 27th September in view of increasing COVID-19 cases in the State capital. However, the State government has allowed resumption of tourism-related services from the 10th of October after almost six months. Free inter-state movement of people without any registration has also been allowed from 1st of October.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">AIR Correspondent reports, the fresh lockdown order for Gangtok Municipal Area has been issued following a spike in COVID-19 cases in the area over the past week. On Saturday morning, State Cabinet Ministers Lok Nath Sharma, Karma Loday Bhutia and M. N. Sherpa; and MLAs Pharwanti Tamang and T.T. Bhutia tested positive for COVID-19.</span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;"> </span><br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">During the Gangtok area lockdown from 21st to 27th September, movement of passenger and private vehicles will be prohibited except those involved in medical and essential services. All commercial establishments except medical and ration shops will remain closed. State Government offices will operate with 30 per cent attendance.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Separately, the Health Department will issue a fresh COVID-19 protocol for inter-state movement beginning 1st  of October. Moreover, the Tourism Department will issue guidelines for tourism-related services in consultation with the Health Department. Hotel bookings in Sikkim following these guidelines will start from 27th of September.</span><br />''