Although the night curfew has been lifted, restrictions on Christmas and New Year celebrations will continue to apply.
In a major U-turn, the Karnataka government announced Thursday that it is withdrawing an order issued Wednesday imposing a night curfew in the state from December 24 to January 2. In a new statement released Thursday, the government said: “After receiving public comment that a night curfew is not necessary and after discussing the decision with senior officials, it was decided to withdraw the night curfew.”
“The public must prevent the spread of the virus through self-imposed regulations, wearing masks, maintaining distance, avoiding unnecessary travel and maintaining strict compliance with the COVID-19 control rules imposed by the government,” added the government statement issued on Thursday.
Although the night curfew has been lifted, restrictions on Christmas and New Year celebrations will remain in effect.
Read: Don’t allow crowds on MG Road from Bengaluru, Brigade at NYE: BBMP to Karnataka government
Previously, according to the order issued by the Chief Secretary on Wednesday night, the implementation of the night curfew was scheduled to begin Thursday night. Until January 2, between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., the restrictions were supposed to be in effect. According to the order, the movement of people had to be strictly prohibited during these hours and the movement of goods was only allowed via trucks, goods vehicles or any freight carrier, including empty vehicles.
Also, all industries / companies / organizations that require night operations must be able to operate with 50% staff. The movement of employees of such organizations would be allowed through the presentation of valid identification cards, issued by their respective organization or institution.
The same order said that industries or factories that require 24×7 operations will also be able to operate without restrictions.
According to previously issued orders, pubs and bars can remain open on Christmas and New Year’s Eve, but DJ parties in nightclubs are prohibited. The government has said that COVID-19 security measures will be strictly enforced during Christmas and New Year’s Eve in the city. However, these restrictions will remain in effect.
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