Business updates

1. WHEREAS regulation 16(1) of the Prevention and Mitigation of the Infectious Disease (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 provides that where it appears to the Minister that premises are being used for any purpose or in any manner which may lead to the spread of coronavirus, he may, by General Notice, order that the premises be closed or remain closed or not to admit customers therein as may be reasonably necessary to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

2. WHEREAS I consider it necessary and expedient, for the purposes of preventing the spread of coronavirus, to limit to the maximum extent practicable outdoor activities by members of the public.

3. NOW, THEREFORE, I order that all trading premises shall be closed and remain closed for a period of seven days commencing 25 March 2020, except for the following premises and in respect of the following activities –

(a) food and cooking gas distribution and associated logistics;

(b) on-line food order and home delivery; 
 

(c) doctor’s offices and medical facilities;

(d) pharmacies from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.;

(e) petrol stations from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.;

(f) medical supply establishments;

(g) hotels;

(h) banks from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.;

(i) port and airport and related businesses;

(j) security services; and

(k) cleaning and scavenging services.

4. Public sector organisations, including Ministries and Government Departments, public enterprises and statutory bodies providing essential services to the public shall continue to operate as authorised.

5. A police officer or a member of the armed forces may use such force as may be necessary to ensure compliance with this notice.

6. Any person who fails to comply with this notice shall commit an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 500 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months.

7. This closing down Notice will lapse on 01 April 2020.

DR. K. K. S. JAGUTPAL Minister of Health and Wellness