Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ishwore Pokharel has assured there will be no more complete nationwide lockdown.
Speaking with Setopati, Pokharel who also heads the COVID-19 Crisis Management Center said the lockdown will be different at different places but stressed that places which attract crowds will remain closed until the situation returns to normalcy.
"Lockdown will now proceed as per the modality. Schools, public transportation, theatres and big restaurants will not open. Public functions also cannot be organized," he stated."If infection surges and the situation becomes frightening some areas will have to be completely sealed. But it will not be closed everywhere as earlier."
He pointed that modality of lockdown has been changed rather than relaxation of lockdown.
The Cabinet meeting on June 10 had finalized new modality of lockdown relaxing restrictions in movement of people that has raised economic activities a bit. The Home Ministry has even issued security standards for management of lockdown.
"We have said that private vehicles can be operated in odd-even system instead of previous arrangements, adopted policy of banning inter-district commute, and sealing the affected places and pockets," he elaborated. "We have relaxed restrictions on the basis of certain standards. People themselves should exercise caution now and maintain physical distance while carrying out their activities."
He advised people to improve eating habits, do physical exercises and pay attention to sanitation to stop spread of COVID-19.
He reasoned that the modality has been changed as the country needs to stop the pandemic while also fighting against hunger and economic catastrophe.
He also urged the people to follow government guidelines including odd-even system and other safety measures.
