The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Thursday decided to remove the weekend curfew and odd-even rule for shops and malls in the national Capital. The night curfew, however, will remain in place. The authority also decided that weddings can be held with 200 people or 50 per cent capacity of the venue.

According to Delhi Government sources, cinema halls, bars and restaurants can also operate at 50 per cent capacity.  Delhi Government offices will also operate with 50 per cent capacity.

A decision on the reopening of schools will be taken up in the next DDMA meeting.  Thursday’s decision on easing of curbs in the national Capital will be implemented after a formal order is issued to give them effect.

According to sources, experts in the meeting suggested reopening of schools in a phased manner. In the first phase, schools from classes 9-12 should be reopened, then classes 5-8 in the second phase, and classes 3-4 in the third phase.

Delhi’s Covid-19 positivity rate has dipped below ten (9.56) per cent. A total of 4,291 cases were reported in the last 24 hours from 44,903 tests. As many as 34 deaths were also registered.

The DDMA’s meeting was attended by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, NITI Aayog member Dr VK Paul, Health Minister Satyendar Jain, DG ICMR Balram Bhargava and several top officials. Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, who is the chairman of the DDMA, chaired the meeting.

The Delhi Government has been trying for the reopening of schools. Hundreds of parents have joined ‘#BACKTOSCHOOL” campaign and written to DCPCR division. Delhi Education Minister announced on Wednesday that he will recommend the DDMA for reopening of schools in Delhi as education and mental health of students were being hampered due to the curbs. Delhi schools have been closed since December 28.

BJP leaders in Delhi also called upon Lieutenant Governor Baijal last Tuesday demanding that the weekend and night curfew should be withdrawn, while odd-even restrictions should also be lifted.