After almost three months of being out of business, the Maharashtra government’s latest notification allowing hotels, lodges, etc, to open with 33% capacity has brought some relief to their owners.
The notification stated that hotels and other entities providing accommodation services including lodges, guest houses, etc, outside containment zones will be allowed to operate with 33% capacity. This will come in effect from 8 July 2020.
The move comes a day after meeting with various associations. The permission has been granted on conditions of these entities adhering to social distancing norms and other protocols. Entry to the hotel will be allowed only after proper thermal screening of the residents. Hand-sanitisers should be provided to all the residents and staff. Only asymptomatic guests will be allowed and they should provide details such as medical and travel history along with the ID to stay in the hotels. Appropriate protection gears such as face masks/cover have to be made available to guests and staff.
Earlier, the Chief Minister had met with the representatives from the hotel industry and said that reopening of hotels and restaurants needs to be carried out in a cautious manner keeping in mind the rising cases. The representatives expressed their concern over losses because of the Covid-19 lockdown.
The number of cases in the state has continued to rise, especially in Marathwada. Various district administrations have imposed blanket curfews in the area. Maharashtra has reported 86,057 active cases of coronavirus, according to the Health Ministry. Total deaths stood at 8,822. As many as 1,11,740 patients have been cured.
However, the orders also stated that shopping malls are still not allowed to open in the state in the wake of the decisions taken in order to contain the spread of the virus. The use of the Aarogya Setu app is mandatory. Even with hotels opening, games, gymnasiums and other public rooms will remain closed, the statement read.