By Innovation-sa on April 9, 2020 in News
A series of strict measures to fight the coronavirus outbreak has been introduced by the Saudi government, which include a 24-hour curfew and lockdown imposed on residents of several cities, including the capital city.
The total number of covid-19 cases in the country rose to 2,932, while the death toll hit 41, forcing the government to adopt strict measures to slow the spread of the deadly virus. Based on four different studies conducted by Saudi and foreign infectious disease experts, the Health Minister warned that cases could range from a minimum of 10,000 to a maximum of 200,000 within weeks if citizens don’t adhere to the state directives against mixing and movement.
Under the new regulations, cities of Riyadh, Tabuk, Dammam, Dhahran, and Hofuf and all governorates of Jeddah, Taif, Qatif, and Khobar have been placed under 24-hour lockdown. The holy cities of Makkah and Madinah has already been imposed a full lockdown and entry and prayer in the two Holy Mosques at Makkah and Madinah has been halted until further notice. Other cities and governorates not included in the above list, will be subject to curfews from 3 p.m. to 6 a.m.
A handful of essential services like pharmacies, medical stores, grocery stores, and others like laundry, plumbing, electricity, air-conditioning, water sanitation, fuel stations, and vehicle maintenance are exempted from the curfew.
Going outside to buy medicine or food is permitted between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m., but must be within their residential area. Moreover, in addition to the driver, only one person from one one household can move for essential needs.
Although restaurants are permitted to deliver food at homes until 10 p.m. across the Kingdom, food trucks, party and banquet restaurants are restricted from functioning.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is issuing a permit valid for one-week for individuals working in the farming industry, including those in the livestock, beekeeping, poultry, and fish industry.
Medical staff, security personnel, and media are exempted from travel restrictions. In addition, charitable societies, volunteers, and neighborhood centers can work from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.