Hotels, bars and restaurants may open, decision likely on Monday

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Hotels, restaurants and bars may be allowed to open in view of the control of the spread of Covid in the state and as the vaccination has crossed 80 percent. A decision on the issue is likely to be taken at the Covid weekly review meeting chaired by CM Vijayan on Monday.

Only parcel counters currently operate in restaurants. Eateries don't even have half of the regular trade. Many hotels do not open due to overwork and low income. Long-distance travelers are experiencing difficulties dine in is not allowed at hotels. Buying parcels and eating them at roadside and in vehicles can cause safety and health problems. Hotels and theaters continue to be restricted despite easing lockdown curbs. The wait for theatre opening is likely to take longer.

Yesterday was the first Sunday since the weekend lockdown was lifted. People did not come out widely due to Covid vigil. Vehicles were also less. There were also police checks on the roads.