The Department of Revenue and Forest, Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation, Government of Maharashtra has issued guidelines on Easing of Restrictions and Phase-wise opening of lockdown (Mission Begin Again). The Guidelines will remain in effect till 30th September 2020.
The Government of Maharashtra is convinced that the state is threatened with the spread of COVID-19 and it is necessary to adopt emergency measures to prevent and contain the spread of COVID-19. To give effect to this objective, the Government has issued the directions to extend lockdown, with amendments to operationalize Mission Begin Again for easing restrictions and phase-wise opening till 30th September 2020.
Key Highlights:
Some of the directions brought about into effect by the guidelines are listed below:
(a) Wearing of face cover is compulsory in public places, in workplaces and during transport.
(b) Individuals must maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet (2 Gaz Ki doori) in public places.
(c) Large public gatherings and congregations continue to remain prohibited. At marriage related gatherings. It must be ensured that number of guests not to exceed 50.
(d) Consumption of liquor, Paan, gutka, tobacco, etc in public places is prohibited.
(e) As far as possible, the practice of work from home should be followed. Staggering of work/ business hours should be followed in offices, workplaces, shops, markets and industrial and commercial establishments.
(f) Provision for thermal screening, hand wash and sanitizer should be made available at all entry and exit points and common areas.
(g) Frequent sanitization of entire workplace, common facilities and all points which come into human contact for example door handles etc. should be ensured, including between shifts.
(h) Activities that remain prohibited in the states are:
I. Schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions will remain closed till 30th September 2020. Online and distance learning will continue to be permitted and encouraged.
II. Cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres (including that in malls and market complexes), bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and similar places.
III. International Air travel of passengers, except as permitted by Ministry of Home Affairs.
IV. Metro Rail.
V. Social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions and other large congregations.
(i) All essential shops that were allowed to remain open bore this Guideline was issued, will continue to do so.
