Picture used for representational purpose only BENGALURU: In the wake of Covid-19 cases rising sharply again, the Karnataka government on Friday notified a new set of restrictions to curb the spread of infection. These include suspension of offline classes for higher education and professional courses, closure of gyms and swimming pools, 50% seating in cinema halls in eight districts and restricted seating in pubs and restaurants. These restrictions in Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Mysuru, Kalaburagi, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Bidar and Dharwad districts will be effective till April 20. The state reported 4,991 positive cases on Friday, the highest single-day spike during the second wave, and a positivity rate (number of persons turning positive for 100 tests) of 4.19%. Bengaluru saw its daily Covid count cross the 3,500 mark with a positivity rate of 5.41%.