Covid-19: Public places in Maharashtra to be shut from 8 pm to 7 am starting today, hefty fine for violators

With the Covid-19 pandemic situation compounding every day, the Maharashtra government on Saturday announced a slew of restrictions including an 8 pm to 7 am prohibitory order and enhanced the fine for not following Covid-19-appropriate behaviour.

The decisions come a day after Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray undertook a comprehensive review of the situation.

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The 10-page notification – as part of the Mission Begin Again series - was signed by Chief Secretary Sitaram Kunte. It also details the action that can be taken if people violate the law.

Gathering of five or more persons will not be allowed from 8 pm to 7 am from Saturday-Sunday midnight.

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All public places including beaches and park would be shut from 8 pm to 7 am. Cinema halls (single screens and multiplexes), auditorium, malls, restaurants and bars would be shut during this period. However, the home delivery of food parcels will be allowed. A violation will attract a Rs 1,000 penalty.

A person found without a mask would be fined Rs 500 and anyone found spitting would be fined Rs 1,000.