Non-essential shops, malls to remain closed on weekends

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, August 17

Keeping in view rising Covid-19 cases, District Magistrate Varinder Kumar Sharma has ordered closure of all non-essential commodities shops and shopping malls on the weekends. “All shops and shopping malls will remain open till 8 pm from Monday to Friday,” said Sharma.

“Only essential commodities shops, including those in shopping malls, will remain open on all days till 8 pm. Restaurants and hotels, including eateries situated within shopping malls, and other hospitality units will remain open till 8.30 pm. Besides, liquor vends will remain open till 8.30 pm as per the order,” Sharma added.

Night curfew from 9 pm to 5 am

“During the night curfew from 9 pm to 5 am, the movement of individuals for all non-essential activities shall remain prohibited within the municipal limits of all cities of Ludhiana district,” said Sharma. “However, essential activities, including operation of multiple shifts, movement of persons and goods on national and state highways and unloading of cargo and travel of persons to their destinations after disembarking from buses, trains and aeroplanes will be permitted. Similarly, all industries running two to three shifts will also remain open,” Sharma added.

After receiving latest guidelines from the Government of Punjab, Department of Home Affairs and Justice, Chandigarh, Sharma, issued this order on Monday. “Any violations shall invite criminal proceedings under the relevant provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and the Indian Penal Code 1860,” said Sharma.