Although Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackarey has issued warning of possible lockdown, the mission re-opening continues by imposing strict rules. In view of Holi and Shab-e-Barat, restrictions on gatherings have been imposed. From Sunday evening gathering of more than five persons at any public place has been banned.
The orders have been construed as lockdown or night curfew. But it is only restriction on gatherings, which is usual during these and other festivals. Nagpur Municipal Commissioner Radhakrishnan B has also tweeted about transport restrictions. Two-wheelers without pillion riders, autorickshaw with only one passenger, other four vehicles with restricted travellers, public transport with 50 per cent passengers are allowed. The restrictions on movement have been restricted from 8 pm of Sunday. Shopping malls and other establishments will remain closed after 8 pm on Sunday and closed on Monday. Only shops of essential commodities have been allowed to remain open till 1 pm.
Changing instructions continuously has created confusion among people and also shop owners. This was observed on Saturday, when earlier weekend lockdown was expected to be in force. However, the markets were open on Saturday and allowed to remain open for restricted period on Sunday.
Monday, being second day of Holi, many shops prefer to keep their shutters down. Even public transport operation is very restricted on this day.
The second day of Holi called Dhulivandan, the festival of color, will have to be celebrated within the family, because of the restrictions.
With growing number of COVID positive cases and people flouting the rules, Thackeray has stated that the Government should not be compelled to impose lockdown. The decision is likely to be announced on April 2.
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