NDO - The central government has ordered for reductions in the pricing of clean water and telecommunications services so as to ease the burden on residents affected by COVID-19.

In a message, Deputy PM Le Minh Khai asked provincial and municipal authorities to reduce water bills for those in areas where social distancing measures are currently being imposed.

He also requested the Ministry of Information and Communications to direct telecommunications companies to lower the service charges for their customers.

Earlier, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh agreed to a proposal to cut electricity bills for residents living in areas where social distancing measures are currently in place.

Accordingly, such electricity customers will enjoy a discount of 15% if they use less than 200 kWh a month and 10% if their usage exceeds 200 kWh.