Amid the rising numbers of infections related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Punjab government on Tuesday ordered a series of restrictions in the State, including the imposition of night curfew in all towns and cities, in effect till January 15.
The order issued by the Department of Home Affairs and Justice says the movement of individuals for all non-essential activities is prohibited between 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. within the municipal limits of all the cities and towns of Punjab. District authorities have been asked to issue prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Cr.PC and ensure strict compliance, the order said.
The order also directs that all educational institutions, including schools, colleges, universities and coaching institutions, to remain closed till January 15. However, medical and nursing colleges can continue to function normally.
Bars, cinemas halls, multiplexes, malls, restaurants, spas, museums, zoos, etc. shall be allowed to operate at 50% of their capacity, subject to all staff present being fully vaccinated. All sports complexes, swimming pools and gyms shall also remain closed, except for training sportspersons for participation in, and organising, national and international events. Spectators and visitors are not allowed.
Air-conditioned buses will run at 50% capacity. Only fully vaccinated staff will be allowed to attend government or private offices, working spaces, factories, industries, etc., the order said.