The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday issued guidelines for the Unlock 3.0 period keeping in mind the interests of all. These guidelines will come into effect from 1st August and will remain in force up to 31st August, 2020. These guidelines allow for opening up of more activities. However, not much will resume in Containment zones.
What’s allowed and what’s not in Non Containment Zones?
The order issues by the government lays down a list of activities which will remain shut. These are-
- Schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutes
- Metro rail
- Large congregations
- Social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions
- International travels, except as permitted
- Cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and other similar places
Except the above mentioned activities, all other activities are permitted.
The order clarified that yoga institutes and gymnasiums will be allowed to operate from 5th August and for this, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will issue a separate SOP.
The guidelines further states that Independence Day celebrations will be allowed with social distancing and following of proper health protocols like wearing of masks, etc.
Lockdown to continue in Containment Zones
- The order stated that lockdown will continue to remain in force in Containment zones till 31st August. Further, the District authorities will demarcate the containment zones details of which will be notified on the website.
- Only essential services are allowed.
- Activities shall be monitored by the concerned authorities.
Buffer zones
According to the guidelines, the States and UTs may also identify areas (buffer zones) outside containment zones where new cases are more likely to occur.
States and UTs may prohibit certain activities
Under the guidelines, States and UTs are empowered to prohibit certain activities or impose necessary restrictions outside the Containment zones based on their assessment. However, it does not prohibit any interstate or intrastate movement of persons and goods.
It further stated that those who’re above the age of 65, pregnant women, children below 10 years of age, persons with comorbidities are advised to stay at home, It also encourages the use of Arogya Setu app.
Penalties in case of violation
Those violating these guidelines will be dealt with provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, besides legal action under S. 188 IPC (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant ) and other legal provisions as applicable, stated in the order.
Source: MHA guidelines