Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently asked states to send their proposals on what they want post-May 17 when the third phase of lockdown ends. The Delhi government on 14th May, submitted a proposal to the Centre on lockdown relaxations. It has suggested reopening of markets, shopping complexes and operation of buses and metro services with strict social distancing norms and some conditions.
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What’s In It
On 12th May, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had sought suggestions from Delhiites on lockdown relaxations post-May 17. They had received over 5 lakhs suggestions. After two days, the Delhi government submitted the proposal with some lockdown suggestions for Delhi.
“The government has suggested that opening of markets, complexes and malls should be allowed in Delhi. However, shops for non-essential items in shopping complexes and malls should be allowed to operate on an odd-even basis,” a government source was reported as saying.
“The Delhi government has also suggested operation of construction activities in Delhi and that movement of labourers within Delhi be allowed”, the source added.
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Moreover, they suggested taxi and buses services for travel post 17th May. Taxis with two passengers will be allowed. Also for buses, 20 passengers are likely to be allowed to travel under strict social distancing norms.
What Delhiites Suggested
In an online media briefing, Mr Kejriwal said most of the Delhiites suggested to not open schools, colleges, barbershops, spa, salons, cinema halls and swimming pools after lockdown 3. Even metro services should also start with limited operations.
“Buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws should be allowed to operate in the city but with social-distancing. We also got suggestions from market associations and most of them advocated the opening of markets on an odd-even basis,” he added.
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Some people said malls should open by allowing opening of one-third shops. In fact, some suggestions were also in favour of closure of hotels, but most of them advocated the opening of restaurants through which home-delivery of food and takeaway facility can be allowed.
Earlier in the day, CM Arvind Kejriwal had said that different economic activities will be allowed in the city from May 18 based on final decision taken by the Centre on lockdown relaxation. But it’s sure that social-distancing norms will not be compromised.
Mr Kejriwal had already made it clear that since the capital has been recording high number of coronavirus cases daily, the lockdown cannot be lifted completely. Activities might open but with strict restrictions.