Delhi lifts night curfew, all COVID curbs; schools to function offline from April 1

As coronavirus cases in the national capital decline, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced on Friday that the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has decided to withdraw all restrictions, including the night curfew, from Monday. Kejriwal also added that schools in the national capital will fully function offline from April 1 onwards. 

"DDMA withdraws all restrictions as situation improves n people facing hardships due to loss of jobs," wrote Kejriwal in a tweet. 

He further added that fine for not wearing face masks has been reduced from Rs 2,000 to Rs 500. Kejriwal conveyed that citizens should continue to follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviour. "Govt will keep strict watch," he stated.

With COVID-19 cases declining sharply and positivity rate going below one percent, traders and political parties had asked the DDMA to lift the remaining curbs.

The DDMA, during its meeting on February 4, had allowed several relaxations, including reopening of schools and colleges. The schools were allowed to function in mixed online-offline mode.

Weekend curfew was done away with but the timing of imposition of night curfew was extended to 11 PM instead of 10 PM to 5 AM.

However, several restrictions, including permitting only one weekly market in a municipal zone were not relaxed.

Cap of 200 persons at weddings as well funeral-related gatherings and ban on entry of visitors at religious places were also continued. A detailed order on relaxations permitted by the DDMA is expected to be issued later on.

Also read: Delhi trade body asks govt to allow shops to remain open till 10pm