Unlock 4.0- Here are the major developments and guidelines

The news which all Indians were waiting for with a lot of anticipation is finally here. In a recent development, there will be no restriction in terms of passenger and goods movement within and across states. Inter and Intra-state travel will be permitted under all circumstances. The Central Government has decided to do away with many more such restrictions as per Unlock 4.0 guidelines. Here are the developments and guidelines all consolidated for you. Unlock 4.0 will come into effect from the 1st of September 2020.

Developments

Union Home Secretary, Ajay Bhalla had stated that any kind of violation of the set norms will result in disruptions of the supply chains and other related economic activities. Thus, the movement of goods and travellers from state to state will no longer be barred. This will also be a welcome change for the people seeking employment and for the betterment of the economy. As we move into Unlock 4.0, here is a list of what opens up and what remains shut across India.

Also read: A handy pre-departure checklist for travel in the COVID era

What opens up and what remains shut?

1. Apart from the Indian borders opening up, the Delhi government is resuming metro train services starting from the 7th of September. The Centre is still contemplating on the reopening of other metros with necessary SOPs in place. Considering that the metros were one of the first few services to get suspended, the reopening is also said to happen in a graded manner. With the metro service being the lifeline of many cities (like Mumbai), the service is said to resume in Unlock 4.0. The MHA will oversee the measures in place to ensure there is no spread of the virus.
2. As far as cinema halls and theatres are concerned, they will remain shut until further notice. This is because there is no way in which the cinema hall operators will be able to adhere to the norms of social distancing in a closed environment. However, open-air theatres are allowed to function from September 20, 2020, with appropriate norms in place.
3. Schools will remain shut and online classes will continue until further notice in Unlock 4.0. Colleges and all other educational institutions will continue to pursue online classes or distance education until the end of this month. But students from Class 9 to Class 12 can visit their schools for clarification of doubts from September 21st. Apart from this, 50% of teaching and non-teaching staff can return to schools and colleges if they live outside containment zones.
4. The government had earlier hinted that social, political, cultural, sports-oriented and all entertainment related activities will remain suspended until further notice. But it has now agreed to allow it with strict rules in place. With a cap of only 100 people attending these events, the usual norms of social distancing, wearing a face mask and thermal screenings have to be adhered to at all costs.
5. The Ministry of Home Affairs had stated that a Standard Operating Protocol will be put into effect for all kinds of international travel. This is with regards to all non-scheduled commercial flights and flights falling under the Vande Bharat scheme. All other types of International travel will not be permitted until the MHA gives a go-ahead.
6. All types of inter-state and intra-state movement are permitted and do not require an e-permit or special grant for movement.
7. Citizens who fall below 10 years of age and above 65 years are advised to stay at home as much as possible to avoid contracting the virus. It is better to venture out only in the case of necessities or emergencies.
8. However, the Centre has also said that no kind of lockdown should be enforced in any of the non-containment zones without receiving prior permission. This will lead to a violation of rules as meted out by the government.

In the wake of the pandemic, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a nationwide lockdown on March 25, 2020. The lockdown was extended multiple times before finally moving into the unlock mode in June. From June 1st, industries and offices have been up and running. This will continue the be the case with norms of social distancing and masks in place. Lockdown will continue in containment zones across India.

Also read: Planning to come back to India? Here are some guidelines for you to keep in mind before planning your travel.

Even though the pandemic has brought the world to a halt, the much-awaited guidelines come as a breath of fresh air. This is especially for people waiting to go on their vacation. If you are craving for a safe mode of travel, you can check out some of the staycation deals offered by Pickyourtrail. Get ready to pack your bags and embark on the vacation that you have been planning ever since lockdown began. Happy travelling!