Covid-19 lockdown: Govt allows standalone shops to reopen, with conditions

Shops in market places, multi-brand and single-brand malls located in municipality areas will continue to remain closed till May 3

In a major relief to shopkeepers and buyers, the government has allowed all shops in residential areas, except those in malls, to reopen from Saturday, albeit with some some riders.
 

The shops, including those located in residential complexes within municipal areas, are allowed to operate, but at a 50 per cent strength and after taking necessary precautions, such as wearing face masks, gloves and maintaining social-distancing norms during the ongoing lockdown to prevent the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19). However, the relaxations are not applicable in Covid-19 hotspots and containment zones.

The home ministry has also clarified that in rural