India is approaching towards the end of the second phase of lockdown on May 3. Speculations are high that India will enter the third phase of lockdown as the country is still fighting the coronavirus pandemic. Coronavirus not only affecting the health of people but also the economy of the country.
Going on the Red, Orange and Green zone strategy, Health Ministry on Thursday released a list of districts of India that are in Red, Orange and Green zone, for the sole purpose to ease the lockdown zone wise. The Center has indicated that from May 4, the scope of the exemption in Green Zones may be extended further. However, masks and social distancing remain part of normal life even after lockdown.
As per the list released by the Union Health Ministry, there are a total of 739 districts in the country, out of which 307 are still untouched by corona i.e. more than 40 per cent. This means about 40 per cent of the economy will open after May 3. After May 3, in green zone districts, factories, shops, small industries including transport and other services can also be fully opened with conditions. The Center can take a decision on this in a couple of days but the final decision in the respective states will depend on the governments there.
Shops In Green Zone:
Services such as mobile phones, electronic, electric, hardware, repair shops, clothing shops, restaurants, haircutting salons may also be allowed to open in Green Jones after May 3. However, these shops will not be allowed to be crowded and social distancing will have to be completely followed. The Punjab government has extended the lockdown for two weeks but has also allowed all shops selling goods in rural areas to be opened with 50 per cent staff and certain other conditions. However, service shops like salons, spas have not been allowed there. Standalone tea and cigarette shops may also be allowed.
Transport Service:
Transport can also be opened in Green Jones in a limited way. Buses and taxis in West Bengal may be allowed to ply within the Green Zones. Inter-state bus service will remain closed. Similarly, such relaxation is possible in other states as well. However, social distancing and wearing masks will be necessary.
Exemption to Factories, Constructions, Industries:
Work may be allowed to resume in all factories in Green Jones from 4 May. In addition, micro, small and medium scale industries can also be exempted. Brick kilns have already been exempted. The break on construction activities in green districts can be removed. Construction work can get a boost.
No Exemption To Wedding Ceremonies, Religious Programs:
Wedding ceremonies, religious programs may not be exempted in the green zones as well
No Lockdown Relaxation In Red Zone:
There are 129 districts in the country in Red Zones i.e. there are hotspots of Coronavirus. The entire Delhi is in the Red Zone. Large industrial centres like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Surat are also in Red Jones, where there is little scope for concessions.
Full List of districts in Red, Orange and Green Zone:
