People wearing
protective masks wait to enter a railway station in Mumbai amidst the spread of COVID-19 across India on April 14, 2021. (Photo: Reuters-Yonhap News)
[Anchor]
For the first time, India has registered a daily total of more than 200,000 new coronavirus cases.
COVID-19 related deaths exceeded 1,000 for the second day running.
The BBC's South Asia editor Jill McGivering reports.
[Reporter]
These alarming figures have doubled in just 10 days.
So why is the virus spreading so fast?
Some blame new variants.
Others point to public behavior, with many flouting rules on social distancing and masks.
In recent days, massive crowds of packed political rallies in states facing elections and at the vast Hindu festival, Kumbh Mela, pilgrims continue to flock in the millions.
Organizers say the festival will continue.
But in the worst affected areas, including Mumbai, Pune and Delhi, hospitals and crematoria are now overwhelmed.
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