Maharashtra lockdown news: Restrictions eased further, know what's allowed and what's not

In the coming weeks, Mumbaikars might see some relaxation regarding the COVID-19 restrictions which were imposed due to the increase in coronavirus cases. Maharashtra health Minister Rajesh Tope, recently hinted at the easing of restrictions in twenty-four districts including the city of Mumbai, because the Covid-19 positivity rates here are lower than the state’s average. 

While some districts may see relief, others might see a more strict implementation of COVID-19 rules because of the high infection in the areas.

Here's what you can expect in terms of relaxations: 

-Weekends might see relaxations but Sunday will remain completely shut 

-Only fully vaccinated citizens will be able to travel in local trains. Currently, only government employees and people involved with essential services are allowed to travel in local trains. 

-25 districts will see the ease of restrictions 

-Cinema halls likely to be open for the public - the capacity is yet to be decided 

-Local shops, hotels, and gyms will be allowed to remain open for longer hours now - 4 pm to 8-9 pm.

Districts that will absolutely not see any relaxations are Pune, Solapur, Sangli, Satara, Kolhapur, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Beed, and Ahmednagar. These districts have higher positivity rates than average. 

Level 3 restrictions to continue in Mumbai until the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) decide to withdraw them. The formula for positivity rate and oxygen bed occupancy will not be followed anymore.