Bengaluru: The state government cut the COVID-19 test rate by another Rs. 500 and now the RT PCR test rate is Rs.1,500 across the state. This is applicable for all those who are referred by the state-run fever clinics to the private labs.

“RT PCR rates in all the hospitals brought down to Rs.1,500. It is Independence Day gift to the people,” said DCM CN Ashwath Narayan.

Also, the rates for direct testing without reference from any government hospital is brought down to Rs.2,500 from existing Rs.3,000.

He also announced that 20 lakh new rapid antigen and 18 lakh RT PCR test kits will be procured soon in the state.

“KC general hospital will be provided with 115 new ICU beds,” he concluded.