BMC’s List Of Frequently Asked Questions On Which Shops Are Allowed To Open

Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Wednesday released a frequently-asked questions list in order to clarify the types of shops that can reopen and under what condition. Here’s the list:

1. The order is effective from which date?
The order is effective from April 28, 2020.

2. Can the GST registration paper be used for pass purpose?
A copy of the valid trade license, issued by BMC and certified by the owner of the shop/commercial establishment, can be used as a pass for movement.

3. Are mobile retail shops selling mobiles allowed to open?
A mobile retail shop selling mobile phones, if it is a standalone/neighbourhood shop, is allowed to open but if located in any market complex or mall, it is not allowed.

4. Can plywood, paint, hardware shops open?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall.

5. Are two and four-wheeler showrooms allowed to open or not?
If the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall it can be opened.

6. Are garments shop allowed to open?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and not located in a market complex/mall.

7. Can private construction work be carried out?
Construction work in construction sites where workers are available on site and no workers are required to be brought from outside (in-situ construction). Bringing workers from outside the work-site is strictly prohibited.

8. Can zprinting shops doing flex, digital printing open?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall.

9. Are marble, tiles, granite, shops allowed to open?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall.

10. Are general insurance companies allowed to open?
Yes, but with 25 per cent staff strength.

11. Can jewellery shops selling gold and silver be opened?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall.

12. Can I open now my glass shop (window glass/door glass)?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall.

13. Can sweets shops, which are mostly takeaway stuff be opened?
Yes, but only as a takeaway outlet.

14. Are maids, cooks, drivers allowed to work in individuals houses?
Yes, but with proper hygiene and sanitation condition, social distancing. They should be insisted to use mask, gloves etc. Their health condition should be watched daily and in case of flu-like symptoms, they may be advised to stay at home and consult doctors.

15. Can sanitary shops be opened?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall.

16. Can maintenance of lifts and escalators be allowed to operate as more than 90 per cent are field staff, who generally work at different sites as one or a pair?
Yes, subject to maintaining social-distancing norms & sanitization practices.

17. Can computer, laptop showrooms be opened?
Yes, provided the shop is a standalone shop and is not located in a market complex/mall.

18. No mention of liquor shops… Any clarification regarding the same?
As per Government’s instructions, sale of liquor has been completely prohibited.