Health Protection Agency (HPA) has announced its decision to impose a seven-hour curfew on islands under monitoring. HPA stated the curfew will be from 2100hrs to 0400hrs from May 26, during which island residents are to stay in their homes and vehicles are banned from driving.
Islands under monitoring are also banned from hosting public and sports events, ceremonies, and gatherings. The residents in such islands are allowed to leave their homes for emergencies or essential tasks, and to be in groups of no more than three when out in public.
Furthermore, HPA ordered the closure of gyms, saloons, and barber shops in islands placed under monitoring. Cafés and restaurants are allowed to provide delivery services but are not allowed to continue dine-in and takeaway services. Colleges and universities have been ordered to conduct classes online and stores are to strictly adhere to the guidelines published by the HPA. Employees in the security and health services, members of the task force, and residents seeking emergency services, are exempt from the curfew.
HPA stated the Maldives Police Service (MPS) will be tasked with enforcing the curfew and the other rules and regulations in the islands under monitoring.