Raj relaxes norms for shops; Odisha okays cab service

JAIPUR/BHUBANESHWAR: Rajasthan on Thursday announced further Covid-19 lockdown relaxations and allowed reopening of restaurants along highways as well as eight categories of shops, business establishments including those selling sweets and building material, in non-containment zones.

The state home department said in an order that restaurants, other eateries, and sweets shops will be allowed takeaway and home delivery services only. Hardware, building material, electronic, repair, servicing and automobile shops will also be allowed to operate.

The order said the shop owners will necessarily have to ensure safety precautions like social distancing, wearing of masks and sanitisation.

Rajasthan reported 4,418 Covid-19 cases and 122 deaths as of Thursday.

The government also issued a standard operating procedure, including 14-day quarantine for around 8,500 people, expected to arrive in Rajasthan from overseas in the next few days.

These passengers will have an option to opt for paid quarantine.

The Odisha government has also issued an order allowing autos and taxis between twin cities of Bhubaneswar and Cuttack from Friday.