LUCKNOW: As total active cases of Covid-19 continued on their downward trend in Uttar Pradesh and touched 2,560 on Friday, the state government has announced opening of multiplex, cinema halls, gyms and stadiums from Monday, July 5. These will be allowed to function up to 9 pm, in accordance with night curfew rules.
The permission to open these, said a government spokesperson, would be dependent on adherence to Covid-19 protocols like social distancing and wearing of masks, and only 50% occupancy was likely to be permitted. A detailed order from the Home Department will be issued later this week. The official added that cinema owners had faced massive losses due to Covid restrictions over the past few months and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that the government will assist them in whatever way is possible. He has asked officials to draw up a relief package for them.
While relaxing the Corona curfew 10 days back, the government had permitted opening of malls, restaurants, bars and street food stalls, subject to a maximum of 50% occupancy, from June 21. It also altered the night curfew timings, allowing leniency for two more hours. It is now in place from 9 pm to 7 am. The weekend curfew will also persist, from 9 pm on Friday to 7 am on Monday.
“The night curfew and weekend curfew will continue for the time being. The virus is considerably weak but it doesn’t mean that is has ended totally. Till we are not confident that we have managed to defeat the virus, certain restrictions will remain in place,” said a senior government official. He added that there would be no restrictions on essential services, industrial and agricultural activity, even during the weekend.
While allowing relaxations in curfew rules, the government has also said that if active cases in any district rise above 500, curfew will be implemented automatically in the district.
