Kolkata: Having reviewed the current Covid situation in the state and the role of prevailing restrictions in the decline of cases, the State Executive Committee of West Bengal State Disaster Management Authority has also decided to extend the restrictions "with gradual and calibrated approach to relaxations" till June 30.
While schools, colleges, Anganwadi centres and all educational/academic institutions besides beauty parlours, spa, gyms, swimming pools (places of any social gathering/congregation) are to remain closed, movement of private and public modes of transport (taxis, auto-rickshaws, intra-state local trains, intra-state bus services, metro railways, etc) remain prohibited.
ALSO READ | Green Fungus Alert: 34-Year-Old Detected With Infection In Indore; Airlifted To Mumbai
All government offices have been instructed to remain open with 25% of employee strength during normal working hours. Heads of Departments are to make duty roster to facilitate smooth functioning of the state officials. For private organisations, the working hours have been fixed to 10 to 4 PM with not more than 25 per cent of employee strength. Employers will be responsible for making all transport arrangements for the employees after obtaining e passes from Kolkata Police/ District Administration.
Parks may remain open for morning walks from 6 AM to 9 AM. However, only people already vaccinated shall be allowed in such places. Shops and markets for daily essentials are to remain open between 7 AM to 11 AM only. All other shops including retail shops in shopping malls will continue to operate from 11 PM to 6 PM.
Games and sports activities may resume in stadiums without spectators and any production units (Television, Cinema and/or Industries) are to continue with not more than the specified limit of personnel.
Stringent measures will be taken by police officials in case of any violation of code of conduct of Covid protocols.
The Government of West Bengal, has announced operation of 12 maintenance special trains with effect from 16th June.
This step comes after the state government's extension of restrictions in the state till June 30. By making available the special staff trains, the government seems to be trying to ensure and facilitate smooth functioning of the state's essential services, especially health.
ALSO READ | 'Facts Twisted, Misrepresented': Health Ministry Clarifies Use Of Newborn Calf Serum In COVAXIN
Use of smart cards and vaild IDs will make these services available for Essential Staff (hospital, bank, police, insurance & press).
“The trains will leave from both ends (KDMI & KKVS) at 09.30 hrs, 10:00 hrs & 10:45 hrs in the morning & 16:30 hrs, 17:00 hrs& 17:30 hrs in the evening. This service will continue from Monday to Saturday.”, it said.
Essential services are to continue in the state like before.