Unlock 3.0: Gyms To Open On August 5, But Pandemic Isn’t Over & We Need To Be Cautious

Having crossed the 15-lakh mark with its coronavirus tally, India currently stands at the third rank among the worst-hit nations. And as the country inches towards the third phase of the unlock, the Ministry Of Home Affairs announced a fresh set of guidelines. The ‘Unlock 3’ that will come into effect from August 1 will see opening up of more activities outside the containment zones. However, educational institutions and metro services will still remain shut. 

A statement from the ministry said, “In Unlock 3, which will come into effect from August 1, the process of phased re-opening of activities has been extended further. The new guidelines, issued today (Wednesday), are based on feedback received from States and UTs, and extensive consultations held with related Central Ministries and Departments”. 

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For containment zones, the government has extended the lockdown further till August 31, allowing only the essential activities. The ministry advised those above 65 years of age, pregnant women, persons with comorbidities and children under 10 years to stay at home until absolutely necessary. 

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Here’s everything you need to know about what’s restricted and what’s allowed during Unlock 3.0.

What’s Allowed?

• After a gap of four months, gymnasiums and yoga centres will open on August 5. However, the Ministry Of Health & Family Welfare will issue a standard operating procedure for the same. 
• The government has removed the night curfew in this phase. This implies that the movement of individuals will not be restricted during the night and shops and commercial establishments can now open till late in the night. 
• While international air travel has been permitted in a limited manner under the Vande Bharat Mission, further opening will be done in a calibrated manner. Vande Bharat Mission that started on May 7 was a repatriation initiative by the civil aviation authorities. Helmed by Air India, the mission proved to be a great success and its fifth phase will begin on August 1. 

What’s NOT Allowed?

• Metro rail services, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, auditoriums and assembly halls will remain shut. However, the dates for opening these will be decided separately, based on the assessment of the situation. 
• Social/sports/entertainment/political/religious functions and gatherings are still not allowed.  
• Schools, colleges and coaching institutions will also remain closed till August 31, 2020. 
• Inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods will be allowed and no separate permission will be required.

In addition to these, the government has asked the states and the UTs to decide on the activities outside of the containment zones or impose restrictions as deemed necessary. Meanwhile, national directives for COVID-19 management will continue to be followed throughout the country including social distancing. The government also stated that Independence day functions will be allowed with safety norms in place. 

We hope that people will continue to take precautions as ease in restrictions doesn’t mean that the pandemic is over. Stay safe!

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