COVID-19 Guidelines Violation: Odisha Govt Reimposes Restrictions On Operation Of Restaurants

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Monday partially modified its July 31 order pertaining to the operation of restaurants in the state in the month of August, which saw reopening of economic activities and livelihoods.

The official notification from the Office of Special Relief Commissioner said that heavy rush of people was seen at different restaurants following the lifting of the restrictions and it compromised the protocol of physical distancing, which has a large potential for spread of COVID-19.

Following this, the department decided to partially modify its earlier order and allow restaurant service in hotels for only in-house guests. They have been directed to operate by strictly following the SOP issued by the Ministry of Home and Family Welfare.

“Restaurants and hotels are permitted to operate for home delivery takeaways of food. Dhabas along national and state highways/major roads are permitted for takeaway only,” the notification further said.

This order will come into force from August 4, it added.

SOP For Restaurants and Hotels 

— Food delivery personnel should leave the packet at customer’s door. DO NOT handover the food packet directly to the customer

— The staff for home deliveries shall be screened thermally by the restaurant authorities prior to allowing home deliveries

— Entrance to have mandatory hand hygiene (sanitizer dispenser) and thermal screening provisions

— Only asymptomatic staff and patrons shall be allowed

— All staff and patrons to be allowed entry only if using face cover/masks

— The face cover/mask has to be worn at all times inside the restaurant

— Posters/standees/AV media on preventive measures about COVID-19 to be displayed prominently

— Staggering of patrons to be done, if possible

— Adequate manpower shall be deployed by restaurant management for ensuring social distancing norms

— Deep cleaning of all washrooms shall be ensured at regular intervals

— Staff/waiters should wear mask and hand gloves and take other required precautionary measures

— Contactless mode of ordering and digital mode of payment (using e-wallets) to be encouraged

— Tables to be sanitized each time customer leaves

— In the kitchen, the staff should follow social distancing norms at the workplace. Kitchens area must be sanitized at regular intervals