Unlock1: Centre Issues Guidelines To Exit Lockdown

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday issued national directives for coronavirus management, including compulsory use of face masks and social distancing norms.

The guidelines for the phased re-opening — Unlock 1 — of the nationwide lockdown will come into effect from June 1, 2020, and will be effective till June 30, 2020.

“Face coverings are compulsory in public places, workplaces and during transport. Individuals must maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet in public places. Shops will ensure physical distancing among customers and will not allow more than 5 persons at a time,” read the directives.

While large public gatherings and congregations continue to remain prohibited, the MHA has ordered that not more than 50 people can attend marriage related gatherings and only 20 people will be allowed for funerals.

Additional rules and regulations have been issued for workplaces.

“As far as possible the practice of Work from Home should be followed. Staggering of work/business hours will be followed in offices, workplaces, shops, markets and industrial and commercial establishments. Provision for thermal scanning, hand wash and sanitizer will be made at all entry and exit points and common areas,” read the directives.

The MHA said that frequent sanitisation should be conducted for entire workplace, common facilities and all points which come into human contact, including between shifts.

“All persons in charge of workplaces will ensure adequate distance between workers, adequate gaps between shifts, staggering the lunch breaks of staff, etc,” the directives read.

Continuing with its earlier order, the MHA said that spitting in public places will be punishable with fine and consumption of liquor, paan, gutka, tobacco etc in public places is prohibited. (ANI)