No lockdown, but stricter COVID-19 curbs in Pune

Pune: In view of rising coronavirus infections in the states, district Guardian Minister Sharad Pawar has imposed stricter restrictions after holding a review meeting with the Pune Municipal administration.

In a relief to common citizens, no change has been made in the night curfew timings which will remain as they are now, from 11 pm to 6 am.

Pawar has ordered to shut schools and colleges till March 31, earlier order issued was till March 14. Restaurants and bars will be closed at 10 pm, however, these establishments can continue food delivery till 11 pm.

More than 50 guests will not be allowed for functions (marriages, religious functions, other social gatherings) held at closed premises and 100 for open premises such as lawns. The PMC administration has also decided to close civic parks in the city during evening hours when a large number of people gather. Restaurants and bars to entertain only 50 % seating capacity. Violators may face FIRs, cash penalties as well cancellations of licenses. Malls, cinema halls and markets (selling non-essential goods) will shut at 10 pm.

Maharashtra has seen the second-highest resurgence of Covid-19 cases with a rise of 331% from its post-peak low seen for the week ending February 11 – from 2,415 average daily infections to 10,410. On Wednesday, Maharashtra touched 13,659 fresh cases – the highest daily tally since 13,395 cases recorded on October 8, 2020.