Unlock 5.0: Economic activities, cinema halls and other likely relaxations | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Unlock 5.0: Economic activities, cinema halls and other likely relaxations

Hindustan Times, New Delhi | Byhindustantimes.com | Edited by Karan Manral
Sep 28, 2020 04:12 PM IST

The fifth stage of nationwide unlock will come into effect from October 1. With festive season round the corner, there are expectations Centre would open up more activities for the public.

India is nearing the conclusion of the fourth stage of nationwide Unlock, which will come to an end on September 30. Unlock 4, which began on September 1, saw the central government give various significant relaxations like resumption of Metro services for the first time since late March, and partial reopening of schools for classes 9-12.

Passengers wait to board buses to reach their destination, during Unlock 4, at Esplanade in Kolkata (PTI Photo)
Passengers wait to board buses to reach their destination, during Unlock 4, at Esplanade in Kolkata (PTI Photo)

Now, with the fifth stage of Unlock set to begin from October 1, speculations are mounting over new relaxations that the Centre may allow. Last week, in his virtual meet with chief ministers of seven worst-affected states, prime minister Narendra Modi suggested steps be undertaken for implementation of the idea of ‘micro-containment’ zones.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

With festive season round the corner, there are expectations Centre would open up more activities for Unlock 5. Here’s what to expect:

Economic activities: While the Ministry of home affairs (MHA) had allowed public places like malls, salons, restaurants and gyms to open with restrictions, more economic activities are likely to be allowed from October with physical distancing.

In his meeting with the chief ministers, PM Modi had stressed on reassessing containments and lockdowns in a way that curbs Covid-19 spread. However, he had further said because of this, economic activities should not face problems.

Also Watch l Covid-19: India crosses 6 million mark, last million in just 11 days 

Cinema Halls: Despite fervent appeals by the Multiplex Association of India, the MHA had given permission only for open-air theatres to resume operations, from September 21.

However, in August, Amit Khare, secretary, Information and broadcasting ministry, had given the home ministry a sitting arrangement formula for movie theatres. As per the plan, alternate seats in the first row and the next were to be kept vacant in order to maintain social distancing.

Also, on Saturday, West Bengal became the first state to allow theatres and cinema halls to open from October 1.

Tourism: The sector, one of the worst-hit due to the Covid-19 lockdown, recently witnessed some recovery with the reopening of tourist destinations, including Taj Mahal. It is likely to see more recovery during Unlock 5 as more tourism centres and tourist places may open their doors for travellers.

Recently, the Uttarakhand government gave tourists permission to enter the state without any institutional quarantine.

Schools, colleges reopening: Several schools and colleges across the country reopened from September 21 for students from class 9-12, on voluntary basis, and it is expected to continue for the next month. However, according to people aware of developments, primary classes will continue to stay closed for a few more weeks. Universities and colleges, meanwhile, have already started their admission tests and the new academic year may begin via online classes.

Unveiling 'Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on Election 2024, India News, Lok Sabha Election 2024 LIVE along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On