May 7: The government has extended the lockdown till May 18 but has eased the restrictions to some extent, allowing operation of some industries producing basic needs under certain terms and conditions.

A meeting of the Council of Ministers on Wednesday decided to reopen industries producing essential goods by adopting safety measures and maintaining physical distancing as a precaution against coronavirus infection.

With the latest cabinet decision, most of the closed industries will now be able to resume operation under strict conditions set by the government.

Pharmaceutical companies, industries producing daily essentials, transportation of raw materials for construction works, banking service among others would be allowed to operate even during the lockdown.

Government Spokesperson Yuba Raj Khatiwada made the announcement during a press conference after the cabinet meeting.

The government has also decided to allow operation of industries that process drinking water, companies manufacturing soaps, packaging industries, gas bottling plants, small and cottage industries, cement and steel industries and other industries that produce export materials.

The Council of Ministers took such decision upon the recommendation of the High Level Committee to Prevent Coronavirus. The committee had recommended the government to extend the lockdown and ease the restrictions.

“Besides the industries, the government has decided to resume national pride projects, hydropower projects, construction of airports, roads, and bridges,” said Minister Khatiwada, who holds the portfolio of finance and communication ministries.

The government has made it mandatory for daily health check-up of workers involved in development projects. The projects must also arrange for the accommodation of the workers at a fixed place in order to prevent them from contracting the disease.

Minister Khatiwada said that the government would allow farmers to harvest their crop and sell their produce as well as other products like poultry, fish, vegetables, milk in the market without any hindrance. The government has ensured hassle-free transportation for vehicles carrying such goods.

However, the cabinet has decided to not to allow cargo vehicles to carry passengers and to maintain strict record of the drivers and helpers.

“The drivers and helpers entering Kathmandu Valley must enter their names which will be verified while they leave the valley. Any discrepancy would be strictly dealt with,” said Khatiwada.

Likewise, the government has allowed banks and financial institutions (BFIs), insurance companies and share market to operate with a maximum of one-third workforce. Only some limited branches of BFIs were operational during the lockdown period so far.

 The government has also allowed operation of government and private hospital, nursing homes, polyclinics, labs, and diagnostic centres. The cabinet decision also allows resumption of vaccination drives and all essential medical services.

 Meanwhile, the international borders and all entry points will remain closed until May 31. The government has strictly barred cross-border movement until the period to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Regular international flights will also remain suspended until May 31. However, government has decided to allow the movement of cargo vehicles through the international transit points.