Turkey extends weekend lockdown to three days to include April 23 national holiday

The Turkish Interior Ministry has announced that this weekend's curfew has been extended to three days as April 23 is celebrated as an official holiday in the country.

Wednesday April 21 2021 10:33 pm

Duvar English

The Turkish Interior Ministry has announced that the country will impose a three-day lockdown beginning on April 23 as part of efforts to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

The decision comes as Turkey celebrates National Sovereignty and Children's Day on April 23.

The curfew will take effect at 7 p.m. on April 22 and end at 5 a.m. on April 26.

Markets, bakeries, and grocery stores will remain open between 10 a.m.-5 p.m. during the curfew days, and customers will be permitted to buy essentials within walking distance in their neighborhoods or have them delivered, the ministry said in its circular sent to the country's 81 provinces.

Last week, the government announced stricter measures as daily cases and deaths surged to record highs after an easing of measures in March.

Accordingly, a curfew between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m. is in place on weekdays, as well as full weekend lockdowns.