West Bengal government announces restrictions to be implemented from tomorrow to prevent spread of COVID-19

The restrictions will be imposed from Monday.

The restrictions, to be enforced from Monday, January 3, were announced by state Chief Secretary H K Dwivedi after a high-level review meeting that took into account the massive rise in Covid cases in Kolkata and the surrounding districts and multiple cases of the news Coronavirus variant Omicron.

All government offices including public undertakings, private offices and establishments would function with 50 percent of employees at a time. Work from home shall be encouraged as far as possible.

Dwivedi said the decisions were taken as per the recommendations of the state executive committee of West Bengal State Disaster Management Authority which reviewed the current restrictions and relaxations.

“All academic activities in schools, colleges and universities shall be halted. Only administrative activities shall be permitted with 50 percent of employees at a time.

“All government offices including public undertakings, private offices and establishments would function with 50 percent of employees at a time. Work from home will be encouraged as far as possible,” announced Dwivedi whiling briefing the media over zoom.

The government notified the restrictions soon after, shutting swimming pools, spas, gymnasiums, beauty parlours, saloons and wellness centers, as also all entertainment parks, zoos and tourist places.

Shopping malls and market complexes have been allowed to function up to 10 PM, but with restricted entry of people - not exceeding 50 percent of the capacity at a time.

Similarly, restaurants and bars can operate with 50 percent of capacity of guests at a time and up to 10 PM.

Cinema halls and theatre auditoria can also remain open till 10 PM by accommodating spectators in 50 percent of seating capacity at a time.

"Local trains shall operate with 50 percent seating capacity up to 7 PM only," the order said.