Lockdown 4.0: Karnataka eases norms, but bans entry of people from 4 states

Even as the Karnataka government on Monday (May 18) announced several relaxations in the coronavirus-induced lockdown norms, it banned entry of people from four states — Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Kerala — till May 31.

The decision comes a day after the Centre, in the new set of guidelines for the fourth phase of lockdown, specified that the movement of passengers would be allowed only with mutual consent between the states.

While Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have reported the highest number of COVID-19 cases in India, Karnataka also witnessed the biggest single-day jump in cases with 84 new patients, bringing the total to 1,231 cases.

The southern state on Monday also allowed buses of all the four state transport corporations to operate, except in red and containment zones, from tomorrow.

Related news: MHA says states can’t dilute Lockdown 4.0 guidelines

Private buses have also been permitted to run their services, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa told reporters in Bengaluru.

Only 30 people would be allowed to travel in the buses and wearing of face masks and maintaining physical distancing are mandatory, he said, adding that the bus fares would not be increased and inter-state transport would not be allowed, except in emergency cases.

Auto and taxis were also given green signal to get on to roads, but there should be only three passengers, including the driver. In maxi-cabs, the maximum number should be four
passengers, including driver.

Trains can operate within the state but not inter-state services till May 31.

Saloons can also pull up their shutters. Parks have been allowed to open from 7 am to 9 am and from 5 pm to 7 pm, Yediyurappa said.

Except shopping malls and cinema halls, all shops can open, he added.

The chief minister said night curfew would continue from 7 pm to 7 am and there would be a complete lockdown on Sundays.

Related news: Lockdown 4.0 is more relaxed; here’s what is allowed and what is not