18:13 April 29
GoI allows inter-state movement of stranded citizens amid lockdown
New Delhi:The Union government issues order to State/UTs to facilitate inter-state movement of stranded people including migrant labourers, amidst nationwide lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19 spread in the country.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Home Affairs, states and UTs will develop standard protocols for receiving and sending stranded people including migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists and students.
In an order, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla said buses shall be used for transport of such groups of stranded people and these vehicles will be sanitised and will have to follow safe social distancing norms in seating.
Read:COVID-19 India tracker: State-wise report
The order comes as a huge relief for migrant workers who have suffered job losses and discrimination from their landlords following the imposition of lockdown.
The movement will happen by road with states consulting each other and reaching a mutual agreement.
On arrival, persons would be assessed by local health authorities and will be kept in home quarantine fora required time frame. Also, they would have to undergo periodic health check-ups.