Night curfew to go, schools reopen tomorrow

Shyam Sundar Vattam | NT

Bengaluru, Jan. 29 In a major decision to bring life back to normal, the state government on Saturday decided to do away with the night curfew with effect from January 31 citing a dip in coronavirus cases. The government also decided to reopen schools and colleges in Bengaluru Urban from January 31 and quoted the high recovery rate and the sharp reduction in the rate of hospitalisation (just 2 per cent) to justify the reopening of educational institutions in the city.

Schools and colleges have already reopened in other districts of the state last week but the decision on Bengaluru city was kept pending in view of the high positivity case rate. Based on a report given by experts to the government after studying the behaviour of the virus in the last ten days, the CM chaired a high-level meeting and took major decisions that could bring the cheer back to trade and industry.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, Revenue Minister R. Ashok said Metro rail and other public transport systems can operate with full seating capacity. The 50% limit on seating capacity in bars, pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels will also be withdrawn, but will continue in cinema halls, multiplexes, theatres and auditoriums.

As far as gatherings are concerned, marriages will have a limit of 300 in open spaces and 200 in closed premises. The 50% limit on attendance in government offices has been cancelled and they will function with 100% staff. Darshan and other services at religious places will be allowed with an entry limit of 50%. No social, religious and political rallies, dharnas, conventions and protests will be permitted till further orders.

The minister said swimming pools and gyms will be allowed to operate with 50% capacity. Sports complexes and stadia can hold events with 50% capacity. Strict vigil will continue at the borders with Kerala, Maharashtra and Goa.

“A decision has also been taken to reserve 25% of beds in private hospitals for treatment of Covid patients. Besides, instructions have been issued to ensure proper treatment for non-Covid ones”, he added.