Covid curbs extended in Bengal till July 30; partial resumption of Kolkata metro services – India Today

The West Bengal government on Wednesday decided to allow resumption of metro services in Kolkata following a two-month suspension. While Covid restrictions stand extended in the state till July 30, metro services in Kolkata have been given the go-ahead to operate at 50 per cent of seating capacity.

“Metro railway service shall operate five days a week with 50 per cent seating capacity and shall remain suspended on Saturdays and Sundays,” read an order issued by the state government on Wednesday.

However, local train services will continue to remain suspended with the sole exception of special trains needed for the movement of personnel engaged in emergency or essential services.

READ: Engineering Marvel! Kolkata Metro’s ventilation shaft is akin to 15-storey building, deepest in India

Soon after taking charge on May 5 as chief minister of West Bengal for a third consecutive term, Mamata Banerjee had declared a series of restrictions. Initially till May 15, these restrictions meant to contain the spread of Covid-19 included suspension of metro and local train services.

These restrictions have since been extended multiple times, along with graded relaxations.

New Covid rules for West Bengal:

• All cinema halls continue to remain shut.
• Educational institutions will remain closed.
• Only a total of 20 people will be allowed at a funeral.
• No more than 50 people can attend a wedding ceremony.
• All political, social, cultural, academic or entertainment gatherings remain prohibited.
• Parks have been allowed to open between 6 am and 9 am only for those who have been vaccinated.
• Gyms have been allowed to operate at 50 per cent capacity in two shifts – 6 am to 10 am and 4 pm to 8 pm. Only vaccinated individuals will be allowed to use a gym.
• All outdoor activities, including movement of people and vehicles, shall remain prohibited between 9 pm and 5 am except in the case of emergencies.