Covid-19 cases surged in the state beyond 200 and death toll neared half a dozen after a span of one week ahead of the year-end with party hotspots and picnic arenas gearing up for the New Year bash.

On Tuesday, a total of 230 new infections surfaced with the state reporting five deaths came in the day, as per the bulletin issued by the state health department. As many as 203 were declared cured during the same period.

State last crossed over 200 cases on December 23 while seven deaths were reported on December 12.

Ranchi again led the death toll with three fatalities in last 24 hours while Dhanbad and Hazaribag witnessed one death each.

Ranchi also reported 107 new cases, while Bokaro (15), Dhanbad (25), East Singbhum (26), Latehar (11) and Palamu (10) got cases in double digits.

State’s total active cases rose to 1604 out of total 1,14,650 positive cases so far since the outbreak of the virus in March this year. Of the total cases, 1,12021 got cured while 1025 have died till date.

State’s seven days growth rate now stands at 0.13% compared to 0.18% nationally. Seven days doubling rate is 531.94 days in regard to 392.91 days across the country, while the recovery rate is 97.70% in the state vis-à-vis 95.90%. Mortality rate is 0.89% as compared to 1.40% nationally.

Ahead of expected turnouts at pubs, eateries and hotels for New Year eve parties on December 31, Ranchi district administration on Tuesday night issued stern directives to all party hosting joints to follow covid safety protocols.

The directive added, "Entry of all visitor must be recorded in the proper logbook with their details such as an address, and phone numbers. All visitors must provide facilities of sanitisers and masks, hotels/restuarants/pubs must adhere to the government's other reopening guidelines. In case of violations, action will be initiated under epidemic act.