New Delhi: The fourth phase of countrywide lockdown, which will continue till May 31, has put the ball in the court of states, allowing them not only to colour-code the zones according to the incidence of coronavirus, thereby taking a final decision on what activities take place in any particular area.
On the broader issues, the Centre has allowed buses and other vehicles to run. But the key bars on air travel and metro rail, malls, gyms, cinemas and big gatherings have been retained. Workplaces and shops can function but with restrictions. Accordingly, the MHA states that all shops, except those in containment zones and malls, will be allowed to open from Monday with staggered timings during lockdown 4.0. However, these shops shall have to ensure six feet distance among customers; not allow more than five people at one time, the ministry said in a statement.
Local authorities should ensure that shops and markets, except in containment zones, open with staggered timings, added the minsitry. In containment zones, essential activities will be allowed, said MHA. There will will strict perimeter control to ensure that there is no movement of people in or out of these zones, except for medical emergencies and for maintaining supply of essential goods and services, the ministry said in a statement. The Centre has stated that the curfew which was earlier observed from 7 pm to 7 am, wherein no movement was permitted, will continue to remain in force across the country.
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