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NEW DELHI, March 19 (Xinhua) -- Taking precautionary measures to check the spread of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Indian capital city, the Delhi Government on Thursday shut down all schools and restaurants till March end.

As per the ban, eating at the restaurants would be prohibited, though food take-away would be allowed.

Announcing several decisions to fight COVID-19, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal told the media that gatherings of more than 20 people at one place would be curbed in order to contain the spread of the virus.

"We have decided to close restaurants in Delhi till March 31. Eating at restaurants will be prohibited, but take away of foods or delivery of food will continue," he said.

A Circular issued by Delhi's "Directorate of Education" said that in view of the spread of COVID-19 and for taking precautionary measures, all schools will remain closed for all the students, teaching and non-teaching staff on March 19-31.

The chief minister also stated that people who have been asked to stay in home quarantine upon their arrival in India would be stamped. The government will be taking strict action against those who flee quarantine.

"If such persons don't keep themselves in quarantine, the government will be forced to arrest them and lodge a police complaint against them."

According to him, Delhi had availability of 768 beds of which only 57 were currently being used. He said the state also has 550 beds in isolation wards.