Shivalik
The ongoing nationwide lockdown, which was scheduled to end on May 3 has been extended by a fortnight in a bid to safeguard citizens from the looming threat of the deadly COVID-19. The government, in addition to the two weeks extension, has also released a set of guidelines for the “well being and safety” of people in the red, orange, and green zones.
According to the Union ministry of home affairs (MHA), activities including travel by air, rail, metro and inter-state movement by road, schools, colleges and other educational and training or coaching institutions, hospitality services other than those used for housing health, police and government officials won’t be permitted “irrespective of zone”.
However, rail and roadway movement will be eased down for “select purposes”, and for purposes as permitted by it. Planes and trains will only be allowed for carrying medical officers or an air ambulance or if troops have to be ferried etc, clarified an official.
“The new guidelines also prescribe certain measures for well being and safety of persons. Hence, movement of individuals, for all non-essential activities, shall remain strictly prohibited between 7 pm to 7 am,” it also said.
The MHA has also asked local authorities to issue orders such as prohibitory orders [curfew] under Section 144 of CrPC—for this purpose, and ensure strict compliance.
Additionally, in containment zones, out-patient departments (OPDs) and medical clinics shall not be permitted to operate. However, these may be allowed in red, orange, and green zones.
The total COVID-19 cases in India have crossed the 35,000 mark and the death toll has crossed 1,100.
