Odisha: Govt eases Covid restrictions, No weekend lockdown

The Odisha government has announced fresh Covid guidelines. The Special Relief Commissioner, Pradeep Jena said, "there is no weekend shutdown across the State anymore. But the night curfew continues in urban areas from 10 pm to 5 am. The new guidelines will remain in force from September 1 to October 1, 2021."

Jena said, "Given the drop in daily cases of Covid-19 infections, the State government has decided to relax restrictions to support the livelihood of people. As per the decision, the weekend shutdown which was enforced in Cuttack, Bhubaneswar and Puri has been lifted. There will be no weekend shutdown in any part of the State during this period."

He further added, "the deadline for closure of shops has been extended from the existing 8 pm to 10 pm. As a result, all shops and commercial establishments across the State can remain open till 10 pm. However, night curfew restrictions will continue in all urban areas from 10 pm to 5 am across the State. The night curfew restrictions assume significance to restrict unnecessary movement of people in late hours during the upcoming festive season." 

Jena said, "There has been a fall in new Covid cases with people strictly adhering to the Covid guidelines issued by the government. We have to practice caution because of the possible third wave. The ceiling during weddings has been increased to 250 from 25. A total of 50 persons, including the band, can participate in marriage processions. All museums and libraries will be allowed to open with Covid restrictions. Cinema halls, malls can now operate with full capacity. However, restrictions on religious, social and political congregations will continue. No permission will be given for melas and exhibitions."