Bhubaneswar, Jul 31 (IANS): The Odisha government on Friday informed that night curfew will continue from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. in the state till August 31 besides announcing weekend shutdown in four districts.

Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Kumar Jena said that all shops, commercial establishments, offices, institutions and movement of individuals shall remain prohibited between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. throughout the state, except for essential activities.

He said weekend shutdown (Saturdays and Sundays) will continue in Khurdha, Cuttack, Ganjam and Gajapati districts and in the Rourkela Municipal Corporation till August 31.

However, on August 1 and 2, all shops and other activities are allowed to function from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The SRC also informed that lockdown in containment zones has been extended till August 31. Gyms and yoga centres will be allowed to open in the state from August 5.

However, places of worship, schools and other educational institutions, cinema halls, malls and swimming pools shall remain closed till August 31.

Collectors and municipal commissioners have been empowered to impose extra restrictions, if needed, based on the local situation, said the SRC.

Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy said that penalties for violation of various Covid-19 norms have been hiked by the state government. The penalty for not wearing mask will attract Rs 1,000 fine for the first two violations and Rs 5,000 for subsequent violations.

Violation of social distancing norms in marriages and at commercial establishments will attract Rs 10,000 fine. The marriage venue will be sealed in case of social distancing norm violation, he added.

Besides, shopkeepers found violating social distancing norms will also be fined Rs 10,000 and the shops will be sealed.