The West Bengal government on Thursday extended the Covid-related restrictions on services and movement in the state till 15 June in view of an unprecedented surge in coronavirus cases. Mamata Banerjee, on April 30, had decided to impose an indefinite prohibition on several things, including shopping malls, markets, restaurants and bars, gyms, and swimming pools, with immediate effect.
Restrictions in Bengal were currently in place from 15 May to 30 May. The restrictions announced earlier this month will carry over into the new ‘near-lockdown’ period.
What’s allowed and what’s not in Bengal:
1) All offices and educational institutions will be shut, as well as transport services, including the metro. Petrol pumps and banks will operate from 10 am to 2 pm.
2) All emergency services will be allowed, as will home deliveries and other online services.
3) Grocery stores and shops selling essential items will stay open between 7 and 10 am. Shops selling sweets, including traditional Bengali sweetmeats, can open from 10 am to 5 pm.
4) Industries will be closed but tea gardens can function, although at 50% strength only.
5) No cultural, political, academic, administrative, or religious events and functions will be allowed during this period. No outdoor congregations will be permitted between 9 pm and 5 am.
