Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai (SS)

Mumbai, May 5: Chief Minister, Uddhav Thackeray, instructed officials to continue making sure lockdown rules are followed, a few days after the Maharashtra government announced some relaxations in the red, orange and green zones. He added that they should aim to make the entire state a green zone by the end of May. Thackeray addressed the district administrations and the police through a videoconference on Sunday night.

The CM said that even though relaxations have been given in order to resume economic activity, it does not mean that lockdown has been lifted. The police and district administrations should make sure that there is strict implementation of the lockdown and must ensure that their respective zones become green zones as soon as possible.

He added that district collectors must take decisions regarding the local situations, however, there should not be violation of the lockdown rules. It must be ensured that there is no crowding and that safe distance is maintained. People from red zones will not be allowed to enter orange and green zones, even though industries have opened up there. Districts borders shall remain closed and the movement of people will be done following strict guidelines.

The government on Monday gave the local authorities like the district collectors and municipal commissioners the power of deciding which five non-essential shops will be open in every lane or street. While some have decided to let shops open on odd and even days, some have allowed one shop to open for a few days, and another shop for another few days. It would be preferred if the shop owners can decide amongst themselves. If they fail in doing so, the authorities can decide, said Bhushan Gagrani, principal secretary of Corona Control Room in Mantralaya.

Labourers from other states will be transported as soon as the special trains are arranged, said Dr Nithin Kareer, additional chief secretary coordinating with other states on migrants’ movement.