Bengaluru gets new Covid-19 guidelines to battle second wave

The surge of Covid-19 cases across the country has led to various state governments relooking rules in an attempt to curb the second wave of the pandemic. In Karnataka, the state government has put forth a new set of restrictions for various sectors, especially in hotspots like Bengaluru. Here's what the the new restrictions are...


No more than 50% occupancy at restaurants and pubs
Restaurants and pubs across the city have been asked to restrict their occupancy to 50 per cent. Masks, sanitisers and social distancing are to be mandatory and violation of these restrictions could lead to the establishment being closed for the entire duration of the pandemic. Event managers say that guest lists are now being screened and kept minimal.

50% occupancy at gyms
While the

KArnataka government

initially ordered gyms to be shut, it has now allowed them to function, but at 50% occupancy.

No large religious gatherings
No big religious activities or events are allowed. Places of worship are still allowed to function and people can visit without crowding for now.

Swimming pools to remain closed
Swimming pools across the state have been ordered to remain closed. Calling the decision unwarranted, Ekalavya Awardee and senior swimming coach for competitive swimmers, Shreesh Reddy says, "Competitive swimming is an exclusive vertical in the domain of swimming and should not be stopped at any cost. Stopping public batches is fine, but competitive swimming cannot stop."

Common facilities closed in apartments
As per the new restrictions, all common facilities and areas, including gyms, swimming pools and other recreational facilities, have been closed in apartment complexes.

Cinema halls to operate at 50% occupancy
While the government initially ordered immediate implementation of 50% occupancy in cinema halls, on request by the film industry, this has been pushed to April 7.

Classes suspended except for 10 and 12 standard
School has been suspended for classes 6 to 9 and classes for standard 10 to 12 will continue. However, there is no compulsion on attendance and online classes have been advised. Only board examinations will happen as planned. Boarding schools and residential campuses and hostels will remain shut, except for standard 10 to 12 and those having exams.