Let malls, Metro resume services: CM to PM
Says markets and complexes should be opened on Odd-Even basis
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal has put forward a set of recommendations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding lockdown rules in Delhi for phase 4 and opening up of the city.
The requests were made for the systematic opening of the city post May 17, when the third phase of the country-wide lockdown ends. He demanded that following the end of lockdown 3, there should be no relaxations in the containment zones. Outside of those, however, economic activities should be allowed. He has also urged that social distancing be followed and the wearing of masks be kept mandatory.
In his letter dated May 14, the CM suggested that markets, malls, public transport including the Delhi Metro, and offices should be allowed to function with limited staff while following physical distancing norms.
However, schools, salons, spas, barber shops, cinema halls, hotels, and dine-in services at restaurants and cafes must continue to remain shut.
Mr Kejriwal said that restrictions in containment zones should stay, but economic activities elsewhere should resume.
“Social distancing and wearing masks should be made mandatory,” he said, while admitting that the relaxations will lead to a rise in Covid-19 infections.
He, however, said: “We have prepared for it by making adequate arrangements for hospitals, ventilators, oxygen requirements,
ambulances, ICUs (intensive care units), etc.”
CM also suggested that Taxis, cabs should be permitted with the condition that except driver only two passengers will be allowed. Carpooling or cab sharing by aggregators should not be allowed.
Also, buses should not be allowed to seat more than 20 passengers with two marshals mandatory at the entry and the exit.
The Metro services should be permitted for government employees. PSUs be allowed to function between 7.30 am and 10.30 am and from 5.30 pm to 8.30 pm. While for private vehicles, two-wheelers should not be permitted to have a pillion rider. Cars to have maximum two passengers besides driver, he said.
Mr Kejriwal also added that private offices should also be resumed with 50 per cent workforce in all zones. Remaining employees should work from home. Markets and complexes can be opened on an odd-even basis. Though, complexes can only operate on the condition that only 33 per cent of shops are operational. Responsibility of enforcement of rules lies with management. Shops, depending on their number, should open on alternate days. Essential item shops to be permitted to remain open on all days.