Slow and steady unlock is ideal for Karnataka

Picture used for representational purpose only

Bengaluru: If you are waiting for the unlock process so that you can visit the malls or theatres then you will need to wait. The government has decided not to open places like malls and theatres. It has also decided to limit the number of people in restaurants and weddings in the initial phase of unlock. The government and officials are working hard to ensure that mistakes made in unlock 1 are not repeated this time.

The government is cautiously taking each step to ensure that unlock 2 is strictly and implemented and the third wave of the pandemic is delayed.

Officials, experts and members of the technical advisory committee are studying models of other Indian states and countries like USA, UK, Australia, Bangkok and Hong Kong.

Also, officials are conducting late-night meetings to decide as to what could be opened first. An official said, “We are thinking about opening parks, playground and gardens for people to walk and exercise in the first phase. Also, some offices need to be opened so that economic activities can resume and vaccination drives carried out.” He added that gathering of any kind is not allowed.

BBMP sources said that the plan is to permit restricted activities and no gatherings. A BBMP source said, “We are planning to keep the numbers low, as it was observed that people never adhered to numbers. A tighter vigil is required. We are not keen on opening malls, theatres and dine-in services in restaurants immediately, as they are high-risk places. Many cases were reported from such spaces and some had also become super spreaders. The opening of salons is still being debated, though some say it is required. The idea of opening markets on alternate days is also being debated as large crowds are a worry.”

However, experts advise the government not to unlock from June 14 but, it should be done in a graded manner, one sector at a time. They suggest that the government should take more time to prepare for the third wave so that it can be handled in a better way.