MADRID: Madrid’s regional authorities seek to challenge the Spanish government’s decision to impose new curbs to contain the spread of Covid-19, saying the measures will cost the region’s population dearly. According to the regional government’s appeal against the recently imposed coronavirus restrictions, the measures could wipe out €750 million ($880 million) in revenue and 18,000 jobs each week. The lawsuit adds that slow economic activity will also significantly decrease tax revenue. The Spanish capital, as well as some nearby cities, entered partial lockdown on Friday evening in compliance with the central government’s order aimed at containing the spread of the deadly virus amid worsening figures. Starting this weekend, around 4.5 million people impacted by the new measures cannot leave their city or town except for essential activities such as going to work or school. The order also limits the size of social gatherings. Bars and restaurants will be able to operate only at 50 percent capacity and cannot serve after 10pm. TLTP
