The Centre has announced ‘Unlock 4’ of the nationwide lockdown on August 29, 2020, to be in effect up to September 30. As per the new guidelines, most of the activities will be allowed outside the containment zones. However, schools, colleges, cinema halls and swimming pools will continue to remain closed. Shops and restaurants can function, based on the guidelines issued by the states. For example, in Tamil Nadu, shops, restaurants and bars can remain open till 8 PM. Haryana also withdrew its order of keeping markets in the urban zones closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. After a gap of about six and a half months, Delhi Metro is finally resuming its services on a trial basis on September 7.
Unlock 4: Open-Air Theatres To Reopen, Cinema Halls To Remain Closed
The Unlock 4 Order by the Ministry of Home Affairs states that in areas outside the containment zones, all activities will be permitted except a few. The reopening will be in the following manner:
- Schools, colleges and other educational institutions will continue to remain closed. However, distance learning can take place. From September 21, 50 per cent of staff can be present in schools at a time and students of classes 9 to 12 can visit their schools on a voluntary basis as per the guidelines issued by MoHFW.
- Metro rails can operate from September 7 in a graded manner.
- From September 21, social, academic, cultural, religious, political and sports gatherings might take place with a ceiling of 100 persons. However, wearing of face masks, thermal scanning and social distancing will be mandatory. Until September 20, marriages can take place with a maximum of 50 people and funerals/ last rites with a maximum of 20.
- Open-air theatres can open up from September 21. However, cinema halls, swimming pools and other theatres will continue to remain shut.
- International air travel won’t be permitted, except those approved by MHA.
There will be no restrictions for inter-state or intra-state movements. No separate permissions or e-permits will be required. - Use of Aarogya Setu app will be mandatory.
- Spitting in public places will be punishable and fine will be imposed as prescribed by the state or Union Territory.
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Lockdown To Continue Inside The Containment Zones
Lockdown will continue to take place in the containment zones and only essential services will be allowed. Also, elderly people above 65 years of age, pregnant women, persons with co-morbidities and children below 10 years, are recommended to stay at home. Passengers travelling by metro will have to undergo thermal checking at every station. Hand sanitizers will be available at the station premises.
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At present, India has nearly 3.62 million coronavirus cases with 64, 469 deaths. Therefore, despite the relaxations, it’s best to stay at home until the infection is completely put at bay. Step out only when it’s absolutely necessary. On that note, did you know about these quirky coronavirus-themed vehicles in India?