Assam police have restricted the movement of all vehicles without permits in the second phase of the nationwide lockdown, which became effective from Wednesday, and asked the transport department to deploy a few taxis so that people in “extreme emergency” can avail of these.

Director-general of police Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta said on Wednesday that only vehicles having permits would be allowed to ply and legal action would be taken against people violating the norms.

“The lockdown will be stricter. No private vehicle will be allowed to ply on the streets without permission from the authorities. All vehicles engaged in essential services will need an authorisation letter,” he said.

Even if a person has an authorisation letter, he will not be allowed to roam around without any valid reason. It will be mandatory for people to use passes or authorisation during service only, he added.

The DGP said these norms would be observed strictly till April 20 after which an assessment would be made and if things remain under control till then, they would be “somewhat relaxed”.

The police are also discussing certain issues with the transport department, such as deployment of a few taxis for emergencies. The citizens can hire them in extreme emergencies instead of taking out their own vehicles.

Mahanta said in case of medical emergencies for senior citizens, a helpline number would be launched which they can call to avail of help from the police. The police will also deliver medicines.

Assam additional director-general of police (law and order) G.P. Singh had said on Tuesday that the nationwide lockdown has been extended till May 3 but if its strict implementation till April 20 yields results, then some relaxations would be made after a review of the situation.

He tweeted, “It’s ruthlessness, laced with kindness, for the overall benefit of mankind. That has been our mantra all these weeks.”