The odd-even arrangement for vehicular movement, which has been in place since last year, has been lifted by the Transport Department, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong informed today.
However, private transportation in Shillong will still have to abide by the odd-even formula. The night curfew restriction also remains firmly in place because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, the restriction on the number of worshippers at religious places has been increased to 75 percent from the earlier 33 percent. This will include meetings and conferences of religious bodies. The Shillong All Faiths Forum had met the Chief Secretary on this matter today.
Other relaxations include permission for hostels and private crèches to reopen with immediate effect.
Dorbar meetings and functions at the village and locality level will also be permitted to increase their attendance to 75 percent; this includes funerals, anniversaries and other gatherings. Sporting venues will also be allowed to seat 75 percent of the venues’ capacity.
While tourist spots have already opened up, until now children below 10 and senior citizens were advised not to visit them. This restriction has now been revoked.
Private business offices have also been permitted 100 percent attendance by staff. Full attendance can also apply to fishing competitions and fetes.
Tynsong, however, said that all these relaxations should be in complete compliance with the standard operating procedures issued by the concerned departments until the vaccination drive is completed.
He also informed that schools from Class 1-5, including in Shillong, Jowai, and Tura, will be allowed to partially reopen with immediate effect.
“The concerned school authorities can have a consultative class and not regular classes, strictly in compliance with all the SOPs,” he added.
