With the state crossing the 4 lakh-mark in novel coronavirus cases since the outbreak, the Maharashtra government on Wednesday announced that it has extended the lockdown in the entire state till August 31 midnight, with a gradual easing as part of ‘Mission Begin Again’.
The development came hours after the Central government released guidelines for ‘Unlock 3.0′. The decision to extend the lockdown has been taken as an ’emergency step to prevent and contain’ the spread of covid-19.
With over 9,000 new patients being detected, the number of COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra has crossed 4 lakh mark.
According to Wednesday’s order, malls and market complexes without cinema halls, food courts and restaurants will be operational between 9 am and 7 pm from August 5. Wearing a mask and following social distancing norms is mandatory.
All other activities including barber shops, salons, spas etc, which were allowed earlier, will also remain open in the current order. All non-essential shops will also remain open from 9 am to 7 pm. Liquor shops will be allowed to operate if permitted for home delivery, or otherwise.