Amid Coronavirus: What You Can/Cannot Do As India Under Locks Down 80 Ditts.
NEW DELHI : The government today ordered states to “strictly enforce lockdown” and asked for legal action against those who violated the restriction, a day after 80 districts across the country were brought under a shutdown to check the spread of coronavirus, which has infected more than 400 people.
Many people are still not taking the lockdown seriously, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted this morning. He also urged states to ensure that the directives are followed by people.”Many people are still not taking the lockdown seriously. Please save yourself, save your family, follow the directives seriously.
I request the state governments to ensure that the rules and laws are followed,” the Prime Minister tweeted in Hindi. Soon after, a government notice took on a tougher tone, warning of legal action against violators.
Across India, 80 districts including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Bengaluru are on complete lockdown, which means only essential services will be allowed. All shops, offices, commercial establishments like malls, cinemas have been shut down, except for those supplying essentials like milk, food and medicines.
Many states have imposed Section 144, which bans gatherings of more than four people. Those violating the ban can face punishment under Section 188, which could mean jail for up to one month or a fine of Rs 200, or both. These could go up to six months in jail or fine of up to Rs 1,000 if such violations endanger human lives or safety.
There are 415 coronavirus cases in India, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Eight people have died, including two in Mumbai. Maharashtra has the highest number of cases. Worldwide, coronavirus has infected tens of thousands of people and over 14,300 have died of the highly contagious disease.
The state governments decided to roll out these regulations as the number of coronavirus cases jumped to 396 on Sunday, with 81 fresh cases only on Sunday. The Centre on Sunday issued advisory to different state governments directing to issue appropriate orders to put 75 districts under lockdown.
Meanwhile, a 68-year-old man from Philippines, who was infected with coronavirus died at a hospital in Mumbai on Monday. This is the third coronavirus-related death in Mumbai and eighth across India. Maharashtra is worst-hit state in India due to coronavirus as the number of Covid-19 patients in the state rose to 89 on Monday with 15 more positive cases reported in the last 24 hours.
Will any kind of public transport ply?
No operation of public transport including private buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and e-rickshaws will be permitted. Only DTC buses will operate at not more than 25 percent capacity to cater to personnel engaged in essential services. Movement of inter-state buses, trains, and metro will be suspended.
Can I book Ola/Uber?
No, most states have placed a ban on public transport including taxis. Some states, however, will allow taxis to allow to go to hospitals and airports. Uber and Ola on Monday suspended operations in Delhi.
Will private cars and two-wheelers be allowed?
Yes, but only for those travelling for essential purposes. You may be stopped at airports and questioned.
Can I walk my dog in my colony?
Yes, but avoid groups and staying out for too long.
Will local stores operate?
All shops, commercial establishments, factories, workshops, offices, godowns and weekly bazaars will close their operations.
Will my maid or driver be able to come?
Yes, however it is advisable to stick to essential services. They may be questioned for venturing out of their homes.
Will roads from Delhi to Uttar Pradesh and Haryana be free to commute?
The motorable and unmotorable borders of the NCT of Delhi with the neighbouring states of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh will be sealed.
Will I be able to buy petrol?
Yes, petrol pumps, LPG and oil agencies will continue to operate.What if I have flight tickets for Delhi?
All international flights arriving to Delhi during this period will be suspended. Domestic flights, however, will remain operational.
What about places of worship?
All religious places of any denomination will be closed.
Can I go to a hospital?
Yes, hospitals and medical stores will remain open.
What if I need medicines?
Chemist shops and pharmacies will be open.
Can I order items for delivery?
Yes, e-commerce of all essential goods including food items, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, groceries, dairy products, general provision stores will be open. Take away and home delivery services of restaurants will be open.
Can journalists go out to report?
Yes, print and electronic media journalists can.
Will I able to withdraw money?
Yes, cashier and teller operations of banks (including ATMs) will be open. However, individuals need a self-declaration to venture out.Will internet and couriers be suspended?
No, telecom, internet and postal services will continue to operate.
Can I go out in a group?
No. Any congregation of more than five people is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.
What are the services and establishments excluded from this order?
Offices charged with law and order and magisterial duties, police, health, fire, prisons, fair price shops, electricity, water, municipal services, activities related to functioning of legislative assembly, pay and accounts office are exempted from this order.
What happens if I have animals?
Trade, commerce and logistics related to manufacturing, processing, transportation, distribution and storage of animal fodder and other goods and services, including their delivery, will continue.
(With Agency Inputs ).
