The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal on Thursday extended the coronavirus-induced restrictions, which were scheduled to end on May 30, in the state till June 15. Addressing a press conference, Banerjee said that the restrictions have been extended to control the surge in COVID-19 cases. However, the TMC supremo refused to impose a complete lockdown in the state to “save the economy”.
What’s allowed and what’s not in Bengal:
1) All offices and educational institutions will be shut, as well as transport services, including the metro. Petrol pumps and banks will operate from 10 am to 2 pm.
2) All emergency services will be allowed, as will home deliveries and other online services.
3) Grocery stores and shops selling essential items will stay open between 7 and 10 am. Shops selling sweets, including traditional Bengali sweetmeats, can open from 10 am to 5 pm.
4) Industries will be closed but tea gardens can function, although at 50% strength only.
5) No cultural, political, academic, administrative or religious events and functions will be allowed during this period. No outdoor congregations will be permitted between 9 pm and 5 am.
6) A maximum of 50 guests are allowed at weddings.
7) Shopping complexes, beauty parlors, cinema halls, sports facilities, and restaurants were shut indefinitely on 1 May.
