TIL Desk/National/New Delhi/ Traders heaved a sigh of relief as shops selling non-essential items and other commercial establishments reopened on Monday in Thane city and neighbouring Navi Mumbai, which are categorised under level-2 of the Maharashtra government’s ‘unlock’ plan.
There was increased movement of citizens in public places, but they were seen adhering to social distancing norms and wearing masks. A number of public transport buses were seen plying on roads in Thane and Navi Mumbai, but they were not crowded.
The Maharashtra government on Friday issued a notification for a five-level plan to relax the coronavirus- induced restrictions in the state, based on the weekly positivity rate and the occupancy of oxygen beds.
In the level-2 category, cities and districts where the positivity rate is five per cent and oxygen bed occupancy is 25 to 40 per cent, essential and non-essential shops are being allowed to open as per the regular timings, but malls, theatres, multiplexes, auditoriums and restaurants have been directed to function at 50 per cent capacity.
Public places and private offices can be opened. Social and political gatherings will be allowed with 50 per cent capacity. Curfew orders will remain in place. Gyms, salons, beauty centres can open with 50 per cent capacity, as per the government order.
