With the capital Male’ City under lockdown since April 15th following the discovery of its first case of Covid-19, the government is poised to allow more eases to the restrictive measures currently in place.
Although the two-month-old lockdown is an essential tool in deterring the Covid-19 pandemic in the country, the social and economical challenges that came with the lockdown have been difficult to navigate for most of those living in the commercial hub of the country. Many are facing job uncertainties while others have to negate pay cuts, ever-mounting bills, sky-high rents, and other expenses that seem endless.
Many haven’t seen family members or friends in months while children living in the capital are itching to get some much-needed sun and air.
So when the authorities detailed the 2nd Phase of the lockdown ease, the residents of Male’ City breathed a collective sigh of relief.
But authorities have been quick to remind that the lockdown ease hardly means that the country has defeated the pandemic that has claimed eight lives in the Maldives.
Officials have urged the public to go out only for essential needs and to maintain social distancing at all times and to keep washing their hands often.
So when the 2nd Phase comes into effect what is allowed and what is still not allowed
What is allowed starting at 5 am today?
- Permits will no longer be required
- You can go out for essential needs from 5 am to 10 pm
- Senior citizens are allowed to go out from 5 am to 8 am
- Individuals can go out for exercises from 6 pm to 9 pm
- Children can go out (accompanied by an adult) from 4 pm to 6 pm
- All retail services allowed to open from 9 am to 9 pm
- Cafés to open for takeaway and deliver from 9 am to 11 pm
- Clinics and Hospitals to resume services
- Parks and public spaces to reopen
With the viral outbreak still active in the congested capital city, authorities have banned the following;
- Gatherings of more than 3 people
- Visiting homes and other people
- Salons and spas to remain closed
Officials have urged the community to do their part to slow the spread of the virus including always staying 3ft apart when outside, wearing a mask, washing hands, and covering cough or sneezes.
Many countries across the world have experienced a second wave of Covid-19 cases once the initial restrictive measures are lifted and authorities have said that the public must follow their instructions to avoid such a scenario here in the Maldives.
