COVID-19 Lockdown: What Will Happen After May 3? FAQs Answered | Earth Indian

New Delhi: With just 2 days left for the lockdown 2.0 to end, there is a suspense over if the lockdown will be lifted or the Narendra Modi-led government announce an extension with some relaxation? The nationwide lockdown was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24 in a bid to combat the spread of COVID-19 or coronavirus pandemic. It was further extended till May 3.

Thought the Centre is yet to give any clear indication, the Ministry of Home Affairs has given a big hint of extending lockdown beyond May 3 but with ‘considerable relaxations’ to people and services in ‘many districts’.

The MHA has said that there was a need to maintain a strict lockdown till May 3 so that the gains are not squandered away.  Earlier on Thursday, in a series of tweets, the Union Home Ministry said it has held a comprehensive review meeting on the lockdown situation in the country and has found that there have been tremendous gains and improvement in the COVID-19 situation due to the lockdown till now.

“New guidelines to fight COVID19 will come into effect from 4th May, which shall give considerable relaxations to many districts. Details regarding this shall be communicated in the days to come,” the home ministry spokesperson tweeted.

The home ministry spokesperson also said to ensure that these gains are not squandered away, the lockdown guidelines should be strictly observed till May 3. With a hashtag #StayHomeStaySafe”, the home ministry’s tweets tagged the Prime Minister’s Office, Home Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Health. This indicated that an abrupt withdrawal of lockdown 2.0 is not on the table.

Will trains, flights resume operations after May 3?

While the Modi government has permitted movement of migrant workers in buses, there is still no indication that passenger trains or flights will resume after May 3. As it would be difficult to maintain social distancing during rail and air travel, airlines operating in the country have reportedly been asked to stop booking after May 3.

Malls, PVRs likely to remain shut

To combat the spread of COVID-19 and maintain social distancing, malls, PVRs are expected to remain closed after May 3.

However, shops selling meats, fish and fodder, electricians, IT repairs, plumbers, motor mechanics, carpenters, couriers, DTH and cable services will be allowed with certain restrictions.

Salons and parlours may reopen

Local salons and parlours located in residential complexes within municipal areas might reopen post May 3.




By Shivam Urkude || Earth Indian

Comments