In the background of detection of ‘Omicron’ variant of the COVID 19 virus in South Africa and some other countries, and its declaration as a Variant of Concern (VOc) by the World Health Organisation, Government of Maharashtra had promulgated guidelines for Air Passengers coming into Maharashtra state.
South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe have been declared as High Risk Countries.
Following restrictions shall apply to the air passengers coming from ‘High-Risk Countries’ to Maharashtra; and those who have visited any of ‘High-Risk Countries’ in past 15 days before arrival in Maharashtra, in addition to those applied by Government of India.
“High-Risk Air Passengers may be deplaned on priority and separate counters will be arranged by respective airport management authorities at all international airports of the State of Maharashtra for their screening and verification. Such all “High-Risk Air Passengers” shall have to undergo RTPCR Test immediately on arrival at respective international airport and shall undergo mandatory 7day “Institutional Quarantine” with second RTPCR Test to be carried out on 7th day. If any of the RTPCR Test is found to be positive, then such “High Risk Air Passenger” shall be shifted to a Hospital with Covid Treatment Facilities. In case result of RTPCR Test of 7th day comes negative, such “High Risk Air Passenger” will have to undergo a further 7 days of Home Quarantine.”
DCP immigration and FRRO to draft a proforma of declaration for all arriving passengers on international flights to declare details of the countries visited in the last 15 days. MIAL to share the proforma with all airlines. The information regarding travel in the last 15 days shall be cross checked by immigration on arrival. An incorrect information furnished by the passenger shall lead to action under relevant sections of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
In the case of domestic air travel, passengers will either have to be fully vaccinated or compulsorily carry RTPCR Test certificate showing negative result within 72 hours before boarding.
