Nagaland government on Saturday permitted the opening of all shops, including neighbourhood and stand-alone shops, in residential complexes within the limits of municipalities and town councils with immediate effect.
However, these shops should not be located in market complexes and multi-brand and single-brand malls, Nagaland chief secretary Temjen Toy said in an order.
The order said the shops located in crowded areas like the Hongkong Market and New Market in Dimapur town and BOC Market in Kohima will remain closed except those shops and outlets dealing with foodgrains, vegetables, food items, medicines, and other essential items and goods.
The order said the shops should open with 50 per cent strength of workers, who should wear masks and mandatorily maintain social distance.
It said the protocol for social distancing, as specified in the lockdown measures, national Covid-19 directives and standard operating procedure, must be ensured.
Shops for truck repairs along the highways with stipulated minimum distancing have also been allowed to open.
The order asked respective deputy commissioners to make an assessment of such locations and issue suitable orders.
It reiterated that salons, dine-in restaurants, eateries, and departmental stores will continue to remain closed.
However, home deliveries from dine-in restaurants, food outlets and delivery of online orders of essential commodities will be permitted.
The order said the proprietors of the shops and establishments which are allowed to open will make arrangements for keeping hand sanitisers or provide facilities for handwashing with soap and water for the public as well as for their own staff/workers.
They should also get the door handles, surfaces, and other objects which are frequently touched by people regularly cleaned and disinfected, it said.