BMC allows all shops in Mumbai to open from 5 Aug, permits counter sale of liquor

In a major relaxation in the lockdown norms, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday said all shops in the city are allowed to remain open on all days from 5 August irrespective of the odd-even rule. In a circular issued under the ‘Mission Begin Again’, the civic body also allowed the counter sale of liquor in Mumbai with proper social distancing norms. “It is further directed that all shops shall remain open on all days on all sides of roads irrespective of odd and even (rule),” the circular said. Besides, all essential shops which were allowed to remain open earlier shall continue to do so whereas all non- essential markets, market areas and shops will remain open from 9 am to 7 pm, the BMC said. Malls and market places will be allowed to work from 9 am to 7 pm from Wednesday. However, theatres, food courts/restaurants will continue to remain shut. “Kitchen of restaurants and food courts will be allowed to operate in malls wherein only home delivery through aggregators will be allowed,” the BMC said. Apart from allowing sale of liquor at shop counters, the BMC said home delivery of booze is allowed with strict compliance with norms. The corporation warned filing of criminal cases against owners of shops and persons found violating its directives. Referring to the national directive for COVID-19 management, the BMC said consumption of liquor, paan and tobacco in public places is prohibited. It added that e-commerce activities for essential as well as non-essential items and material will be permitted. All the industrial units presently open will continue to operate, it further said.