The government of the Maldives has announced that the country would move ahead to Phase III of the lockdown ease tomorrow with several restrictive measures now removed. This comes as the average number of new cases of COVID-19 remains at the same level even though another person died of the illness in the country just yesterday. The country is also set to re-open its borders in mid-July to welcome back much need tourist visitors that would boost the country’s economy after the crisis had depleted state funds and destabilized the economy.
Here are the general guidelines set by the authorities as the third phase of lockdown ease is implemented:
- Movement permitted from 05 am to 11 pm (Greater Malé Region).
- Gatherings of over 30 people are not allowed in public places/spaces.
- No specific timings set for age groups, unlike previously.
But the authorities still urge the public not to go out unless necessary and to maintain 3 feet distance with others if going out. The authorities also said that masks are mandatory for all closed spaces and public service areas.
Officals reminded that individuals should wash their hands with soap and water or use sanitizer if handwashing is not possible. While the threat of COVID-19 still remained, authorities have advised individuals to cover their noses and mouth while coughing and sneezing and to stay home if sick. They also recommended that if any individual is having any symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, dry cough, headache, difficulty in breathing) they should visit a flu clinic immediately.
What is still not allowed in July
- For islands with Covid-19 confirmed or suspected cases, schools (including tuition classes) and day-care services for young children below 12 years.
- Sports academies and activities targeted for multiple children.
- Mass gathering, such as parties and rallies.
- Operation of guesthouses in islands with Covid-19 confirmed or suspected cases.
As for transport, there will be no travel restrictions (transport and ferry services) between islands without confirmed or suspected cases of Covid-19. While travel to Greater Malé Region from islands without confirmed Covid-19 cases is allowed, current procedures must be followed while travelling from Malé to other islands and will be subjected to mandatory 14-days of home-quarantine.
Yesterday President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had announced that café and restauratnst would be allowed to resume operations starting today. Authorities confirmed that Dine-in services are allowed with new normal measures and would be open from 9 am to 10 pm while delivery service will be open from 9 am till 11 pm. Authorities have said that Restaurants/cafés should follow the guidelines set by HPA and that establishments should display the maximum number of people allowed inside the premises.
All customers and staff should wear masks while inside the premises
Meanwhile, communal prayers would resume in all the mosques in the greater male’ Area from the dusk prayer (magrib) onwards today. The Islamic Ministry had earlier announced a guideline for mosque goers to follow when attending congregational prayers.
Phase III also allows schools to resume session; key stage 4 and 5 (grades 9-12) for Male’ area and key stages 1 to 5 (grades 1-12) in islands without confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19.
Also, Salons, barbershops, and spas will be open as per HPA guidelines from today
All establishments must display the total number of customers allowed inside at any given time. All staff and customers must practice a minimum of 3 feet distancing between each other.
The Maldives is set welcome international flights on the 15th of July once the border re-opens. The foreign Ministry had said that on-arrival visa would be issued to all foreigners once the border re-open
