Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Wednesday announced relaxation in the partial lockdown restrictions in 20 Category-A districts, where the test positivity ratio (TPR) is less than 5 per cent.
From July 1, all shops, including standalone barbershops, will be allowed to remain open from 6 am to 6 pm in Sundargarh, Jharsuguda, Bargarh, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Kalahandi, Balangir, Nuapada, Sonepur, Ganjam, Gajapati, Kandhamal, Boudh, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Malkangiri, Rayagada, Angul, Dhenkanal and Keonjhar.
Shopping malls, spas and beauty parlours will, however, remain closed.
Chief Secretary Suresh Mohapatra said that there will be no weekend shutdown in these districts. Night curfew, however, will remain in force from 6 pm to 6 am.
“Bus transport will be allowed in the category A districts but under strict adherence to COVID protocols. Buses will be allowed to pick up passengers up to seating capacity only. Taxis and autos can carry a maximum of 2 persons apart from the driver,” he said.
The Chief Secretary said that the weekly haat and daily markets will resume in these districts. “The collectors and municipal commissioners have been asked to ensure that the vendors maintain social distancing and abide by the COVID guidelines,” he said.
Outdoor and indoor film shooting will also be allowed in these districts. Street food vendors can deliver takeaway orders, he added.
