Authorities in Nepal have extended restrictions in the Kathmandu Valley, comprising three districts, for another ten days and also scrapped the odd-even rule it had earlier imposed for public transport. The valley has been under restrictions since 29 April. 

On Sunday, the country reported just 1042 Covid-19 infections, the lowest since 19 April. 

Local authorities had started easing restrictions by mid-June as the Covid-19 cases receded significantly. However, authorities had imposed the odd-even rule for public transport. And, it was widely criticized by transport entrepreneurs and health workers who said the rule would allow fewer such vehicles on the road leading to crowding in public transport and heightened infection risks, reported The Kathmandu Post. 

In the latest review meeting, local authorities this time scrapped the odd-even rule for public transport. 

“We have lifted the ban on public vehicles in the Kathmandu Valley. Public vehicles can operate in the Valley by following the set protocols,” Kali Prasad Parajuli, the chief district officer of Kathmandu, said. “We have also decided to allow schools to conduct examinations in person,” he informed, adding the number of examinees in a hall should not exceed 25.  

(SAM)