Given the fears surrounding the ‘Delta Plus’ variant of the coronavirus that was recently classified as a “Variant of Concern” (VOC), the Maharashtra Government today imposed a ‘state-level trigger’ to bring restrictions across its administrative units even if the oxygen bed occupancy and weekly positivity rates are under check.
The state is resorting to this step as a precautionary measure against the variant. In its order, the State Government said “restrictions in administrative units will remain at a level not below 3.” On the other hand, suburban train services shall be accessed only by “medical staff and personnel engaged in essential services,” the order went on to say.
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This notification follows the state’s original five-level unlock plan which was unveiled by the administration earlier this month. The notification added that a large number of COVID-19 patients with the Delta Plus mutation have been found in districts like Ratnagiri, Jalgaon, and others while the state reported its first death due to the variant this week.
Clarifying the ‘state-level trigger’ the order said that this would mean Level 3 restrictions in administrative units will continue until the District Disaster Management Authority chooses to withdraw them.
The order also stressed the need to vaccinate at least 70 per cent of the eligible population in Maharashtra while also adding that weekly positivity rates to ascertain the levels of restrictions will be determined via RT-PCR tests and not rapid antigen testing (RAT). Meanwhile, gyms and salons have been allowed to stay open until 4 PM at no more than 50 per cent capacity.
“Essential shops and establishments can remain open till 4 pm on all days in areas falling under Level 3 of the five-step unlock plan. Non-essential shops and establishments can remain open till 4 pm on weekdays. Restaurants will be allowed a dine-in facility with 50 per cent capacity till 4 pm on weekdays and takeaways and home deliveries after that,” the notification read.
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