Signalling its intention for further relaxations post-Diwali, state extends shop and restaurant timings; pools and other facilities can expect good news soon
Customers at a restaurant on SV Road, Borivli, in August. Pic/Satej Shinde
On its way to lift the remaining COVID-19 restrictions ahead of Diwali, the state has decided to extend the timings of shops and restaurants, and reopen amusement parks from October 22. Restaurants will be allowed to entertain patrons till 12 midnight, while kitchens will shut at 1 am. Shops will be permitted to remain open till 11 pm. Sources said CM Uddhav Thackeray wants the relief given to shops and restaurants at the earliest.
Shops can stay open beyond 11 pm if granted by local authorities.
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A shop at Ghatkopar in June. For a long time, shops and restaurants have been demanding extended timings. Pic/Sameer Markande
For now, only dry rides will be allowed in the amusement park. The decision on the wet rides has been kept pending by the State Covid Task Force which met Thackeray on Monday. Sources said the decision on allowing wet rides in the amusement may be taken before Diwali.
The chief minister’s office said the standard operating procedure for shops and restaurants will be made public soon. Shops have been demanding extended working hours to meet the growing market. Bars and restaurants have been grieving the loss of customers who venture out late at night.
Uddhav Thackeray
In the meeting, Thackeray asked officials to also focus on ailments like dengue and chikungunya which have hit a larger population amidst the Coronavirus pandemic. He wanted preparations to be made in advance for the vaccination of children once the Centre decides on the programme.
“The second wave may have subsided, but a possibility of a third wave is there. We cannot afford to be complacent. The people must be made aware of the benefits of continuing a COVID-appropriate behaviour like wearing masks, washing hands and physical distancing,” the CM said. He has asked the authorities to keep on seeking COVID-related information like new treatment methods, the prices, efficacy and availability of new medicines.
Restaurant kitchens must close at 1 am. File pic/Ashish Raje
The restrictions on using the swimming pools by the enthusiasts may also be lifted soon. At present, only competitive events and practice are allowed.
Month of reopening
Apart from giving cinemas, auditoriums and theatre relief on certain conditions, the government has opened schools, colleges, malls, and religious places over the last month.
Nod for wet rides at amusement parks might come after Diwali
Access to local trains has been eased for the fully vaccinated and under-18 people. The Centre has allowed airlines to use 100 per cent carrying capacity. Tourism has logged significant growth with restrictions lifted.
With the number of COVID cases dipping, there is a growing demand for lifting the remaining restrictions.
Oct 4
When schools reopened for Std VIII-XII students
Oct 20
When degree colleges will reopen in the state
Oct 22
When cinemas and auditoriums will reopen
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