What a three-phased relaxation of lockdown could mean to Keralites

Kochi: The 17-member expert committee constituted by the Kerala government to decide on post-lockdown restrictions has recommended a phased, calibrated and gradual lifting of the lockdown.

The Kerala cabinet will discuss and take a final decision on the recommendation on lifting of lockdown in the state, submitted by the 17-member expert committee.

The committee recommended three-phased gradual relaxation of the restrictions. In each phase, the changes in lockdown norms will be as follows:

PHASE I

During Phase I, no person should be permitted to leave home without wearing a mask. Those venting out should carry valid ID card to prove place of residence and purpose of travel.

Occupancy of government vehicles should be restricted to two per vehicle excluding the driver. Only one person per house will be allowed outside the house at a time for a specific purpose and for not more than 3 hours at a time.

An odd-even scheme should be imposed for private vehicles on the road throughout the week, with Sunday being no-vehicle day.

No gathering for any purpose more than five persons should be permitted.

No religious congregations to be permitted and all places of worship shall remain closed.

Banks may follow 50 per cent attendance but with normal work hours.

Airline and rail movement for passengers into the State should be totally disallowed. No entry of any person from outside the state during other than what is permitted currently.

While attendance in government offices and banks would be restricted to 50 per cent, the number of persons permitted at any private work site, at a given time, will be either 10 people or 25 per cent of the staff strength.

Jewellery shops, garment and textiles, electronics and fancy ware shops also should not be allowed to function.

PHASE II

In the Phase II, autos and taxis would be permitted and buses for short distances. All occupants in the vehicle should compulsorily wear face masks and only one passenger is allowed per seat. Standing would not be allowed in public transport.

Micro, small and medium enterprises will be permitted to function with strict protocols. Attendance at marriages and funerals shall be strictly restricted to 20 persons.

Total employees at any work site or private organisation shall be restricted to 20 persons or 25 per cent of staff strength whichever is higher.

Though morning walk is allowed for half an hour before 7.30 AM in this phase, people should keep a safe distance of at least two meters from the nearest person.

PHASE III

In the third phase, inter-district bus service is allowed with two-third capacity, subject to strict protocols and social distancing.

Domestic flights for essential passengers, doctors, health workers, patients etc. may be permitted at 50 per cent of the seating capacity.

Universities, schools and colleges can be opened only for conducting examinations, with proper safe distancing norms.

All IT companies may be allowed to open partially. Staff engaged in production and development of software applications should continue to work from home.

Shopping malls may be allowed to function with restriction of one person from a family allowed inside.

Hostel and residential facilities may be opened in strict compliance with protocols.

Persons from outside the state can be allowed to enter but they should undergo 14-day home quarantine.

Online sale of liquor by State Beverages Corporation is also permitted in this phase.