India's Lockdown 5.0 Guidelines: Reviewing Relaxed Measures Post-May 31st

As India approaches the end of its current lockdown period, the government is carefully weighing the risks and benefits of extending or easing restrictions. With the number of positive COVID-19 cases continuing to rise, the possibility of a fifth lockdown, or Lockdown 5.0, cannot be ruled out. This article explores the current situation, the guidelines proposed for Lockdown 5.0, and the ongoing discussions among state leaders.

The Current Scenario

The prolonged lockdown has had significant economic and social impacts. As of May 19th, India had 1.82 lakhs infected persons, with an average daily increase of around 10,000 cases. The Prime Minister has scheduled video conferences with state chief ministers on June 16th and 17th to review the situation. The national government is closely monitoring the trends to ensure that any further extension or easing of lockdown measures is done in a controlled manner.

Lockdown 5.0 Guidelines

The Central government has issued new guidelines for Lockdown 5.0, which are expected to allow more relaxations compared to previous lockdowns. These guidelines focus on three phases of relaxations, ensuring a gradual return to normalcy while maintaining stringent measures in containment zones.

Phase 1: National Directives

While containment zones will remain under lockdown until June 30th, the government has issued national directives for COVID-19 management. These include mandatory face mask use and adherence to social distancing norms. These measures aim to ensure that any potential surge in cases is contained effectively.

Phase 2: Opening Educational Institutions

The second phase of relaxations involves the opening of academic institutions. Consultations with state governments and UTs (Union Territories) will be held to determine the timing of school and college re-openings from July onwards. This phase is crucial for students and parents, as educational institutions are essential for societal and economic recovery.

Phase 3: Additional Relaxations

The final phase of relaxations will include decisions on the resumption of international air travel and the reopening of non-essential services such as metro rail, cinema halls, gyms, swimming pools, and entertainment parks. These decisions will be based on the assessment of the current situation and the progress in containing the virus.

Possible Extensions and Relaxations

While the present lockdown is set to end on May 31st, the possibility of an extension cannot be completely dismissed. State leaders, such as Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, have expressed a need for a 15-day extension, citing the rising graph of COVID-19 cases and the necessity for stricter controls in certain areas.

Delhi's Health Minister Satyendra Jain echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of maintaining safety measures, particularly in places where large gatherings take place. Schools and colleges, however, may remain closed to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff.

Implementation of New Guidelines

Following the release of Lockdown 5.0 guidelines, the government is expected to implement a phased approach to relaxing measures. This includes allowing more flights, opening up train services, and gradually easing restrictions on businesses and public spaces.

More flight routes may be opened, with airlines considering a relook on passenger capacity. Train services may increase, with AC class services potentially being reintroduced. Relaxations in running intra-state buses and opening up metro services in limited capacities are likely. Shops, malls, and markets may have more relaxed measures for operation. Restrictions on gyms, movie theatres, and religious places may continue, with salons and dine-in restaurants possibly being allowed to reopen with certain conditions.

The government is also considering suggestions from experts for relaxing the night curfew and allowing visits to places of worship, as long as proper guidelines are followed.

Conclusion

The decision to extend or ease lockdown measures in India is a delicate balance between economic recovery and public health. The upcoming reviews and consultations with state governments will play a crucial role in determining the final course of action. The new guidelines for Lockdown 5.0 aim to provide a structure for a prudent and controlled return to normalcy, ensuring that the situation is managed effectively as the nation moves forward in combating this global pandemic.