Marking an end to the third and final phase of the nationwide lockdown yesterday, Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji said, relaxation doesn’t mean Bhutan is free from the coronavirus risks. Relaxations are primarily to improve convenience and engage in economic activities and livelihood. The minister said, embarking on this new normal has only increased new responsibilities as it has heightened exposure to infection.
“We have initiated the final unlocking of the nationwide lockdown. When we do this, some people might think that now there are no risks. But that is not the case. We do not have risk free areas; which is why we have categorised the areas and districts into low and high risks. For now, it’s not just the southern parts of the country but all areas adjacent to the international borders that are considered as high risk,” Lyonpo said.
The relaxation of the third phase will allow all shops to open but must ensure proper spacing and other COVID-19 etiquettes. Similarly, restaurants, barbershops, salons, video game parlours, snooker, informal businesses and street vendors will also operate but they must ensure fifty per cent of the capacity at a given time. Businesses will close by 9 pm.
Similarly, sports facilities like gym, yoga, dance studios and rubber tracks can operate at fifty per cent capacity. Golf, badminton, tennis and table tennis are also allowed. As per a press release from the Prime Minister’s office, all futsal, football turfs and basketball courts including private can operate but without any spectators. Archery is also allowed with not more than 15 participants and without spectators. The business closure time of 9 pm will not apply to sports.
Moreover, parks and public places will open with strict monitoring of crowds. And those wishing to travel from low to high-risk areas will have to wait until all unlocking formalities are complete in those areas.
All social events are discouraged but the unavoidable ones should be limited to family members. Cremation and funeral rites and other rituals at home are permitted but without gathering. Official meetings, seminars, workshops and travels are not allowed.
Sonam Pem
