MHA issues Unlock 3 Guidelines, opens up more activities outside Containment Zones

Ministry of Home Affairs on July 29, 2020 issued new guidelines for Unlock-3 in areas outside the Containment Zones, which will come into effect from August 1, 2020, the process of phased re-opening of activities has been extended further. The new guidelines, issued are based on feedback received from States and UTs, and extensive consultations held with related Central Ministries and Departments says MHA.

From now onwards there will be no restrictions on movement of individuals during night (Night curfew) have been removed. Yoga institutes and gymnasiums will re-open from August 5, 2020. People will now can celebrate Independence Day with social distancing and by following other health protocols, wearing of masks is necessary.

It has been decided that schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31, 2020 after the extensive consultation with States and UTs. International air travel of passengers has been permitted in a limited manner under the Vande Bharat mission.

Lockdown shall continue to be implemented strictly in the Containment Zones till August31, 2020. Containment Zones are required to be carefully demarcated by the State/ UT Governments with a view to contain the spread of COVID-19, after taking into consideration the guidelines issued by MOHFW. Within the containment zones, strict perimeter control shall be maintained and only essential activities allowed. Activities in the Containment Zones shall be monitored strictly by State and UT authorities, and the guidelines relating to containment measure in these zones shall be strictly implemented.

Dates for opening of Metro Rail, Cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, Social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural religious functions and other large congregations will be decided separately, based on the assessment of the situation.

There shall be no restriction on inter-State and intra-State movement of persons and goods. No separate permission/ approval/ e-permit will be required for such movements. States and UTs, based on their assessment of the situation, may prohibit certain activities outside the Containment zones, or impose such restrictions as deemed necessary. Shops will need to maintain adequate physical distancing among customers.

Persons above 65 years of age, persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women, and children below the age of 10 years, are advised to stay at home.

The use of Aarogya Setu mobile application will continue to be encouraged.