The government has announced the first phase of easing lockdown restrictions in the Greater Male’ Region will begin on May 28.
Speaking at the daily press briefing held at National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), Minister of Health Abdulla Ameen announced the first phase of easing restrictions will apply for a period of two weeks starting from May 28. The minister stated offices and schools will not be opened during the first phase of easing restrictions, although shops and certain businesses will be allowed to operate during this period. He also revealed the number of people allowed outside from each household, along with the duration and zone, has been increased for the first phase of easing restrictions.
The minister revealed a maximum of three people will be allowed to go out from each household for a duration of two hours. However, individuals are still required to seek a police permit before going out.
Shops and businesses permitted to be opened during the first phase of easing restrictions include general shops, supermarkets, fish markets, bakeries, pharmacies, bookshops, children’s stores and hardware stores. In addition, services such as delivery, automobile construction, electronic repair and workshops are also permitted to operate during the next two weeks. Meanwhile, mobile phone shops, electronics stores, sporting equipment stores, cosmetics stores and local product stores are allowed to conduct their businesses online during this period.
Banking services will be open for the public 3 days during the first week of easing restrictions, and 5 days during the second week. Cafes and restaurants can provide delivery and take-away services during this period, while taxi and pick-up services have been permitted to resume as usual. Clinics are required to provide online consultation services, while outpatient services can be sought from flu clinics.
While public offices are not allowed to be opened during the first phase, permits will be provided to a limited amount of staff required for essential operations. Ministry of Economic Development will be providing details of how private offices can operate during this period. A special permit will be issued for construction work.
During the first phase of easing restrictions, permission will not be given to open mosques, schools, parks, beaches, gymnasiums, salons, sports and recreational facilities, resorts, guesthouses and airports. Restrictions in travelling between islands will remain in place, while public transport services will remain suspended.
Health Minister Ameen has advised the public to take the necessary precautions despite easing some of the restrictions, as the risk of COVID-19 has not been eliminated. He urged the public to continue following the instructions of health authorities in order to be able to advance to the second phase of easing restrictions.