In the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in India, the country's Ministry of Home Affairs has decided to extend the suspension of all existing visas given to foreign nationals till May 3, after the government announced to extend the nationwide lockdown until the same day.

Foreign diplomats and officials with UN or other international organizations are excluded from the suspension. 

The ministry also said all passenger traffic coming from 107 immigration check posts will also remain suspended till May 3.

"However, no such restriction would apply to vehicles, planes, ships, conveyance, trains etc. carrying any goods and supplies whether essential or non-essential," the ministry said. Yet, their crew, sailor, driver, helper, cleaner and others shall be subjected to thorough medical screening for COVID-19.

A nationwide lockdown initially came into force on March 25. Saturday marks the 25th straight day of the ongoing lockdown across the country announced by the government to contain the spread of the pandemic. 

India's federal health ministry Sunday morning reported the death toll due to COVID-19 in India rose to 488 and the total number of confirmed cases in the country reached 14,792.

(With input from Xinhua)