Shillong, April 19: In view of the recent spike in Covid-19 cases in Meghalaya, the Govt on Monday reviewed the situation in presence of cabinet ministers and officials of the health department.

The new Covid-19 restrictions are – restrictions on the tourist coming from outside the state from April 23 until the next 14 days, whereas local tourists can still visit some of the local tourist spots, to be decided by the DCs concerned. However, these restrictions are applicable in locations around Shillong.

“The Govt has given the liberty to the Deputy Commissioner in deciding certain tourist locations that can be a hotspot of Covid-19, the govt will take precaution measures to curb out the overcrowding in different tourist places,” informed Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.

The Govt has also decided that private offices will operate with 50 per cent capacity. “Those who can work from home, the govt has encouraged them to do so. Even in the Govt offices the same decision has been taken, 50 per cent at all Govt offices, the govt will minimise the employee strength in the different Govt offices, but for Banks, Post Offices and other Central Offices will continue to function with 100 per cent capacity,” the CM added.

The Shops will continue to function but the Govt urged the shopkeepers to follow necessary protocols, if proper protocols are not followed closure notice will be issued.

All schools in Shillong from Nursery to Class 12 will be closed from tomorrow for the next 14 days. The schools will reopen on May 4.

“The ongoing MBOSE (SSLC and HSSLC) examinations will continue as per schedule”, the CM informed.

Restaurants, eateries and Hotels can function with 50 per cent capacity. Those not adhering to Covid protocols will be served closure notice.

Govt has urged the Hotels and Restaurants to encourage takeaway and not to allow people to sit for a long period after eating. Roadside markets will be allowed to open as usual.

Public gatherings will be stopped in Shillong areas, however with pre-emission weddings will be allowed, including Social gatherings and funerals.

The RTPCR testing that was made mandatory by the Govt will only be valid for 48 hours, reducing from 72 hours to 48.

“The Govt is of strong opinion that there should be a strong balance between the Economy, the livelihood of the people and the safety and the security of the people of the State”.

“The State Govt is not in favour of a complete lockdown,” the CM said, while urging the people to cooperate by adhering to necessary SoPs issued by the Government.