On Sunday, Maharashtra Government extended lockdown till 15th June. Uddhav Thackeray said, relaxation will be given to each district depending on the positivity rates and availability of oxygen beds.
The Indian Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHAR) has written to chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, requesting him to allow re-opening of hotels and restaurants and to provide financial help given the loss of revenue due to frequent obstruction because of lockdowns.
“After sharing the precarious situation of the industry and how certain measures can be of help to revive the industry, we are very hopeful of a positive outcome from the state government,” said Shivanand Shetty, president, AHAR, the apex body of the hospitality industry in Maharashtra, adding that the ripple effect of this is felt by other related sectors and it is something which has to be addressed at the earliest before it becomes beyond repairs.
Drawing attention to this serious situation the industry has been pushed into, it has requested for extension of the period of renewal of the FL III license (sale of liquor) and reduction of the applicable fee for this year.
Apart from resumption of dine-in, AHAR has requested vaccination of the workforce on a priority basis as they are constantly in touch with vegetable vendors, residents etc, which in turn would also give confidence to consumers.
“Many are threatening to agitate if opening up is not announced. I want to request you to have patience. We have not imposed a very strict lockdown. I am not enjoying keeping these restrictions. But it is the need of the hour,” Thackeray said in his address to the state.
As per the state government order, all establishments and shops engaged in essential services can remain open from 7 am to 2 pm where the positivity rate is less than 10% and occupancy of oxygen beds is less than 40%.
