Kerala gets back to ‘relaxed lockdown’ mode: Know what is allowed.

As the state’s triple-lockdown-like restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus came to an end, Kerala reverted to a more relaxed restrictions mode on Monday. On the final two days, only a few shops and services deemed essential were allowed to open.

Kerala has been under lockdown since May 8 in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. However, as the state’s situation improved, the government announced various relaxations from time to time.

Following days of hovering around the 15-point mark, State expects the TPR to fall below 10 this week. Kerala’s TPR was 12.24 percent as of Sunday. If the TPR continues to fall,

From June 17, the government is expected to announce additional relaxations, such as allowing autorickshaws and taxi services, workshops, and hairdressing salons to operate.

What is allowed and what is not in the state from Monday:

• Essential items, raw materials for industries (including packaging), and construction materials (including electrical and plumbing) can be sold. Other businesses and shops should remain closed.

• Government offices, semi-government establishments, public sector units, corporations, and commissions will operate with half of their normal staffing levels.

• Morning walks in public places will be permitted between 5 and 7 a.m., and evening walks will be permitted between 7 and 9 p.m., subject to strict adherence to social distancing protocols.

• Inter-district travel restrictions will remain in place, and those venturing outside should carry an affidavit proving their purpose of travel.

• Banks and financial institutions can stay open until 5 p.m.

• From 7 a.m. to 7.30 p.m., hotels and restaurants can provide parcel service. Dining in is not permitted. Home delivery is available until 9 p.m.

• Stores selling necessities and food materials can be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Stores selling academic textbooks, wedding items, jewellery, and footwear can stay open until 5 p.m.

• Access to textile, footwear, and jewellery stores will be restricted to those shopping for weddings. People will be required to show their wedding invitation card in order to enter the shops. These products will be available for home delivery.

• Weddings could be held with a maximum of 20 guests if they were planned ahead of time.

• Funerals can be attended by up to 20 people.

• Farm-related service, equipment, and machinery centres can operate between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m.

• Refrigerator repair shops are open for business.

• Toddy shops can offer parcel services. Government-run liquor outlets and bars will remain closed.

• Optical shops, establishments selling hearing aids, prostheses and other assistive devices can function

• Gas stove repair shops, establishments offering mobile phone and computer repair services will be open.