Bengal extends Covid curbs till July 30, allows Metro Rail services on weekdays

Keeping in mind the warning of experts about a possible third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, the West Bengal government on Wednesday extended the ongoing restrictions till July 30, but also announced certain relaxations.

Metro Railway services are allowed to resume operations at 50 per cent seating capacity on weekdays, a government order said.

The local train services, however, will continue to remain suspended except the staff special trains.

The restrictions, imposed on May 16, were last extended till July 15.

The order stated that public buses, taxis, autorickshaws have been permitted to operate at 50 per cent capacity.

Offices, both government and private, are also allowed to function with half the manpower, it said.

Gymnasiums and beauty parlours can also operate at 50 per cent strength from 11 am to 6 pm.

Only 50 people will be allowed to attend social gatherings such as weddings.

Vegetable markets can remain open from 6 am to noon, the order said.