Unlock 3 Guidelines: Curfew ends, gyms to reopen, no schools till August end

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has prescribed a host of new rules and relaxations as India enters the third phase of the unlock procedure from August 1.

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The unlock procedure in the country started from June 1, when the Centre eased some restrictions in order to get the economy moving again while still observing safety norms. As per the new guidelines, the restrictions on regular passenger services will remain. However, special trains will continue to be operated by Railways for passenger convenience.

120 days advance reservation facility is now available for special trains. Plan your journey today:

Here is the new list of relaxations allowed in Unlock 3:

• Restrictions on movement of individuals during night (night curfew) have been removed.
• Yoga centres and gyms will be allowed to reopen from August 5. However, they will have to strictly ensure social distancing and other COVID-prevention measures as per rules issued by the Health Ministry.
• Independence Day functions will be allowed by following social distancing measures and other health protocols.
• There will be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of people and goods. No separate permission, approval, e-permit will be required for such movements.
• International air travel will continue to be permitted in a limited manner under the Vande Bharat repatriation programme.

Similarly, here is the latest list of activities and services that will remain shut in Unlock 3:

• Schools, colleges and coaching institutions will remain closed till August 31.
• Metro rail, cinema halls, swimming pools, entertainment parks, theatres, bars, auditoriums, assembly halls and similar places will continue to remain shut.
• Social, political, sports, entertainment, academic, cultural religious functions and other large congregations will continue to be prohibited.
• Containment zones as identified by the respective states or union territories will remain under lockdown. Only essential activities will be allowed in these zones.

Note: The guidelines also highlight that the national directives for COVID-19 management, including wearing masks in public and maintaining social distancing, shall continue to be followed throughout the country. 

The new set of relaxations are sure to bring further relief to the general public.