Pune: The epicentre of novel virus, Pune is currently one of the worst-affected cities in India after it started witnessing a spurt in the spread of COVID-19. On Wednesday, the district reported 7,888 new coronavirus cases, which took its caseload to 6,76,014.
To tame the undiminished spread of the contagion, the Maharashtra government declared a lockdown style curfew last Sunday and a number of stringent restrictions till April 30, including a night curfew to restrict the spread of the virus. The curfew has been ordered to be imposed till 7 in the morning of May 1. As Maharashtra has been witnessing the maximum number of cases, everything has come to a halt in the last few weeks. Only essential services have been permitted in the state. However, ever since the announcement, several members of the public and industries have said the rules of the partial lockdown are still confusing.
In a bid to clarify any muddle in the rules of these stringent restrictions imposed in the state due to the COVID-19 surge, The Bridge Chronicle has issued a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) with its answers.
Will vegetable, fruit shops and groceries remain open?
Yes, they are allowed to operate in the city. People in Pune can buy vegetables and other essentials between 7 am to 6 pm.
What are the timings for Swiggy, Zomato?
They will remain functional from 7 am to 11 pm.
What about the weekend lockdown?
Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has clarified that weekend lockdown will remain active.
Which establishments are allowed to operate from Monday to Friday?
Vegetable and fruit shops, pet-food shops, groceries, medical shops, dairies and other essential service establishments will operate.
Is public transport allowed during this period?
Public transport will only be available for healthcare providers, emergency service providers and for those working in the essential sector.
Which mode of transports will remain functional?
ST buses, trains, flights, auto-rickshaw will ply with their respective issued guidelines.
Can people buy liquor during this period?
Yes. In accordance with the government order issued on April 4, 2021, people can buy liquor from bars (on take away basis) or as home delivery.
Can roadside street-food stall, eateries remain open?
Yes, they will remain open but the rules applicable to restaurants will apply here such as no dine-in service. Only take away or delivery will be allowed.
What about PMPML?
Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) will ferry only those working in essential sectors.
What about those going for vaccination?
People can visit the vaccination centre during this period.
What is the cap for function such as wedding?
Only 25 people are allowed during the wedding.
