Maharashtra Govt Announces New COVID Relaxations; Timings for Restaurants, Shops Extended

The Maharashtra Government has announced multiple relaxations in the coronavirus restrictions across the state. The new SOPs will come into effect on August 15. 

While hotels and restaurants across the state were allowed to run only until 4 PM, the revised guidelines allow establishments to extend their timings until 10 PM. 

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Maharashtra Health Minister, Rajesh Tope said that the new guidelines will permit shopping malls to remain open until 10 PM as well. Tope clarified that entry to malls will be limited to individuals who have received both shots of their COVID-19 vaccine. 

Staff at shopping malls are required to be fully vaccinated while following social distancing norms, particularly for seating. “Staff members to be completely vaccinated, allowed to work only after 14 days from second dose,” the State Government said. 

What’s allowed: 

• Local trains allowed for fully vaccinated individuals. A penalty of ₹500 and further action against non-vaccinated travellers. 
• Government offices to run at full capacity.
• Gyms, yoga centres, salons, spas can remain until 10 PM at 50 per cent capacity. 
• Restaurants can be open till 10 PM at 50 per cent capacity.
• Limit of 200 people for an outdoor wedding ceremony, 50 per cent for indoor ceremonies. 

Meanwhile, places of worship, along with drama/cinema halls are not allowed to open as per the new SOPs, though a change in the future cannot be ruled out.

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