Covid-19 lockdown: Govt allows all local shops to open, but malls excluded

However, the exemptions will not be given in hotspots and containment areas

In a reprieve to public at large, the government on Friday night allowed opening of neighbourhood and standalone shops, including those located in residential complexes within municipal areas, but at a 50 per cent strength and after taking necessary precautions.

However, the order signed by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, made it clear that shops in marketplaces, multi-brand and single-brand malls located in municipality areas shall continue to remain closed till May 3.

Amending its April 15 order, the Union Home Ministry said "all shops, including neighbourhood shops and standalone shops, shops in residential complexes, within the limits of municipal corporations and