A ‘new normal’ day in Assam

Life back on track with conditions after relaxation of curbs

05/05/2020, SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT,GUWAHATI

Heavy traffic on GS Road in Guwahati after relaxation of lockdown on Monday. Ritu Raj Konwar

A semblance of normalcy returned to Assam on Monday with the relaxation of COVID-19 lockdown allowing several commercial activities to resume across the State’s green zones.

There are no red zones in Assam with 32 of the 43 who tested positive for COVID-19 having been discharged while one person died. Of the State’s 33 districts, only four are marked orange zones.

People ventured out of their homes to buy essential commodities and other items as 33% of shops and commercial establishments were allowed to open by the government from 6 am to 6 pm. The business outlets have been instructed to open on a rotation basis.

State-owned and private buses began plying with 50% passengers under the Transport Department’s watch. Government and private offices also began functioning with 50% workforce. Private vehicles and app-based cabs allowed to carry a maximum of two passengers were on the streets too.

Social distancing

“The police have been asked to monitor the movement of people to ensure they venture out with mask and maintain social distancing,” Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said.

The liquor shops, which were allowed to open two days ahead of the general relaxation date, did considerable business.

The Department of Excise could not provide data but the All Assam IMFL Retailers’ Association said the daily sale in the State was about ₹15 crore.

Hotels, restaurants, gyms, salons, parks, swimming pools, shopping complexes, theatre halls and weekly markets continued to remain shut.