No decision yet on reopening of schools and cinema halls in Telangana

The Telangana government has made it clear that no decision has been taken to reopen schools and cinema halls in the state and added that a separate order would be issued with their reopening date. The announcement was made by Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar, while issuing the Government Order (GO) about the guidelines under 'Unlock 5'.

In colleges and higher education institutions, online and distance learning shall continue to be the preferred mode of teaching and shall be encouraged, it said.

Higher education institutions only for research scholars (Ph.D) and postgraduate students of technical and professional programmes - requiring laboratory/experimental works are permitted to open from October 15.

Separate orders will be also issued regarding date of opening for cinema theatres, multiplexes, entertainment parks and similar places.

The guidelines were issued in line with those issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on September 30 to reopen more prohibited activities in areas outside containment zones and to consolidate the measures related to lockdown in the state.

In areas outside containment zones, all activities permitted prior to introduction of lockdown measures will be allowed. However, certain activities shall be allowed to function with the stipulation of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Swimming pools being used for training of sportspersons will be permitted to open from October 15, for which SOPs will be issued by the government.

Business to Business (B2B) exhibitions will be permitted to open from October 15, for which also SOPs will be issued.

Social/academic/sports/entertainment/cultural/religious/political functions and other congregations with a ceiling of 100 people and by following health protocol will be permitted outside containment zones with a mandatory wearing of face masks, physical distancing, provision for thermal scanning and hand wash or sanitiser.

Marriage related gatherings shall be permitted with a maximum of 100 participants. Funeral/last rites related gatherings with the number of persons not exceeding 100 will continue to be allowed.

Persons above the age of 65 years, persons with co-morbidities, pregnant women, and children below the age of 10 years are advised to stay at home, except for essential and health purposes.

In respect of containment zones, strict lockdown shall be in force till October 31. Only essential activities shall be permitted.

According to the GO, buffer zones shall be identified outside the containment zones, where new cases are more likely to occur. Within the buffer zones, restrictions as considered necessary may be put in place by the district authorities.