COVID-19 Lockdown | Govt provides relaxation on livelihood, construction activities

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 23, 2020

The state government on Thursday has decided to provide some relaxations amidst the COVID-19 lockdown in certain districts from April 24. 

The state capital and Mylliem community and rural development block, which have been affected by the coronavirus spread will be exempted from easing of any norms.

Announcing this after a review meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the government has decided to allow certain economic activities to start from Friday.

“Several activities including construction of roads and buildings will be allowed in the state – excluding Shillong agglomeration and areas under the Mylliem C&RD Block, as they have been categorized as hot-spot – from tomorrow,” he told reporters. 

Tynsong said services provided by self-employed persons like electricians, IT repairs, plumbers, mechanics, carpenters etc have also been exempted from the lockdown.              

“We have also decided to allow stone quarry activities to start but the supply will be strictly for use within the state and not for exporting outside,” he added.                               

He further informed that since all cement factories are closed, the stock of cement however is available for two months in the state.                                                                      

Stating that the government has issued a different order for Shillong agglomeration and Mylliem block, Tynsong said that services provided self-employed persons like plumber, electrician, IT repairs, mechanics and carpenter will be allowed. “We have also decided to allow opening of hardware shops in Shillong and the DC have been asked to regulate the timing to ensure there is no rush,” he said.                                                       

He said the government has also allowed tea plantation to start in the state. “The two orders have been circulated to all the respective deputy commissioners for implementation. All activities which have been exempted from the lockdown will have to strictly follow the protocols and advisories issued by the district administrations and DM&HOs, as it is for the safety of their families and the state as a whole,” Tynsong added.