In light of the new COVID-19 'Omicron' variant, which has been classified as a variant of concern’ by the WHO, the Maharashtra Government today issued fresh order directing strict adherence to COVID-19 appropriate behaviour.
The order stated that since the State Government is recording fewer COVID- 19 positive cases consistently over the past few months it is now considering opening up economic, social, entertainment and cultural activities with fewer restrictions, especially for fully vaccinated persons.
The order further said that strict adherence to COVID appropriate behaviour (CAB) as laid down by the State and Central Government from time to time shall be observed by all, including the service providers, owners of premises, licensees, organizers etc.
Such behaviour includes frequent washing of hands, maintaining social distance wherever possible, avoiding crowds, avoiding spitting in public places, among others.
According to the order, only fully vaccinated people will be allowed to use public transport. Any shop, establishment, mall, event, gathering etc.where people can get services must be must be manned by fully
vaccinated persons and people visiting such places should be fully vaccinated.
"The Universal Pass created by the State Government shall be a valid proof for status of full vaccination. Or else, Cowin Certificate with a valid ID proof carrying photo may be taken a valid proof for the same. For citizens below 18 years, other Government or school-issued photo identity and for those who are unable to take the vaccine due to medical reasons, a certificate from a certified medical practitioner may serve as documentary evidence for entry," the order said.
The order further stated that. "All travellers into the state from any international destination shall be governed by directions of Government of India in this respect. All domestic travellers into the state shall either be fully vaccinated as defined hereinafter or shall carry a RT-PCR test valid for 72 hours"
According to the order, "In case of any program/ event/ activity happening in an enclosed/ closed space like a cinema hall, theatre, marriage hall, convention hall etc, people up to 50 percent of the capacity of the space will be allowed."
"In the case of open to sky spaces, for any events or gatherings, people up to 25 percent of capacity will be allowed. DDMA shall have authority to decide the capacity in case of such locations of gatherings or events, if not already declared formally (like stadiums)," it said further.
The guidelines states that, any individual found flouting COVID-19 appropriate behaviour will be fined Rs 500 for each instance of default. If any person does not adhere to the COVID protocols inside the premises of anorganisation, the authorities can impose impose a Rs 10,000 penalty on the institution in over and above the individual fine on the person.
Also, if anyone is found to be flouting coronavirus guidelines inside a taxi or private transport, the driver, helper conductor who are providing the service will also be fined Rs 500.
