Spain begins to ease lockdown measures as COVID-19 cases reduce

Several people in Spain have returned to work as the country eased lockdown measures with the rate of COVID-19 infections falling.

Industries, including construction and manufacturing, were allowed to reopen on Monday, with workers urged to follow safety guidelines.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez explained that the decision was taken after consulting a committee of scientific experts. 

The decision, however, has sparked criticism from some regional leaders who fear a second wave of infections. 

Meanwhile, schools, shops and public places will remain shut until at least April 26, with residents urged to stay indoors.

Spain, which entered its second month of lockdown, has more than 166,000 positive cases and over 17,000 deaths.