Delhi govt sends suggestions to Centre on relaxations post May 17

Speaking to IANS, an official from the government said the suggestions have been sent to the Centre after detained analysis.

"The Delhi government has sent a number of suggestions to the Central government. It has demanded that while all activities in the containment zones in the city should be barred, at other places, the movement of people should be allowed with proper protection," the official told IANS.

The official said the city government has also suggested for a complete resumption of industries and arrangements for employing labourers living in nearby areas in Delhi.

"The government has also suggested for keeping the educational institutes shut and also to bar the opening of cinema halls."

The official added that the opening of public transport is also suggested keeping in view the demand from the public.

"We have suggested the Centre to allow the buses, metro, autos, taxis in the city with a strict implementation of the social-distancing norms."

The government has suggested starting auto-rickshaws with only one passenger; and two passengers in taxis along with disinfection of these vehicles after each ride.

For buses and metros, the government has said these should ply with half of its capacity to ensure social distancing.

Also, with the odd-even in force, the markets, shopping complexes and malls be allowed to open after May 17.

"With all the relaxations, facial mask and social distancing will be a must," the official said.

Lt Governor Anil Baijal and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday held a meeting with the Delhi Disaster Management Authority to discuss the suggestions received on the lifting of coronavirus lockdown post May 17.

The final decision on the same will be taken by the Central government.

The lockdown announced on March 24 was to end on April 14. It extended to May 3 and later to May 17. The Centre is now having discussions on the picture post May 17.