BMC issues new ‘unlock’ guidelines for Mumbai, rules out opening local trains to public – India Today

Mumbai’s civic body, the BMC, on Saturday issued new guidelines in accordance with the Maharashtra government’s five-tiered ‘unlock’ strategy. The state government is gradually lifting restrictions in place to contain the spread of Covid-19.

With the latest figures putting the positivity rate in Mumbai at 5.3 per cent, the city falls under the third level of the state government’s unlock guidelines.

According to rules framed by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Mumbai’s local trains will not be open to the public for now. Movement on local trains has been restricted to medical emergencies and essential services.

The civic body also decided against making an exception for women. The Maharashtra government’s level-3 ‘unlock’ guidelines recommended that women be allowed to travel on local trains. However, the power to take a final call in this regard was vested with the local administration.

Other districts in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) have been asked to consult with BMC before implementing any new rules regarding local trains.

Level 3 of unlock in Mumbai: What’s open and what’s not

The level-3 ‘unlock’ guidelines apply to all districts/areas with a positivity rate of 5-10 per cent and bed occupancy of over 40 per cent.

Dear Mumbai,

Municipal Commissioner @IqbalSinghChah2 informs that Mumbai shall fall under level 3, as per #BreakTheChain orders by the State Government.

Watch this space for detailed written orders shortly.#MyBMCUpdates

— Mumbai, BMC (@mybmc) June 5, 2021

As per the norms, movement after 5 pm will be restricted in such districts/areas, including in Mumbai. The guidelines will come into effect on June 7.

• Shops dealing in essential goods will remain open till 4 pm on all days. In the case of businesses dealing in non-essential goods, they will be allowed to function till 4 pm, only on weekdays.
• Malls and theatres will continue to remain closed in Mumbai.
• Gyms, salons, beauty centres, spas and wellness centres will be allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity and only till 4 pm. These businesses have been directed not to make use of air-conditioners and entertain only customers with prior appointments.
• Dining at restaurants will be allowed only till 4 pm, only on weekdays. After this time, restaurants will only be permitted to facilitate takeaway.
• Congregation of more than five people will be unlawful as per Section 144 of the CrPC.
• Meanwhile, public transport will be allowed without queues. Parks and gardens will open from 5 am to 9 am.
• Construction activities have also received the BMC’s nod, provided on-site laborers are made to leave by 4 pm.
• Private offices can stay open at 50 per cent capacity till 4 pm on working days.
• Movie/television shoots, along with gatherings such as funerals and weddings will also be allowed till 4 pm on weekdays at 50 per cent capacity.