Male’ City Council has shortened opening hours of parks in Male’ and bans parties and gatherings in such spaces.
The city council made changes to the opening hours of parks following a new wave of COVID-19 cases in the capital. The city council said as part of efforts to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission, opening hours of parks have been shortened to six hours per day. As such, the city council revealed parks will be opened from 0500hrs to 0800hrs in the morning, and from 1700hrs to 2000hrs in the evening, effective from January 30. The city council also revealed parties, ceremonies and other similar gatherings will not be permitted in parks or open public spaces.
Additionally, Male’ City Council has also strengthened safety measures in parks against COVID-19. In this regard, all individuals entering parks are required to get their temperature checked and sanitise their hands. They must also wear face masks in order to enter the park. Handwashing facilities have also been installed in parks.
Furthermore, individuals entering parks are required to practice social distancing and avoid gatherings. Parks have been allocated a maximum occupancy which must be followed when allowing entry.
COVID-19 cases have been on the rise in the Maldives since late December. The past week has seen record numbers of COVID-19 in the Maldives, with over 100 cases reported on each of the past six days.
Total number of COVID-19 cases reported in the Maldives has risen to 15,614, including 1,492 active cases. There are 142 COVID-19 patients undergoing treatment in hospitals or medical facilities. A total of 51 people have passed away from COVID-19 in the Maldives, including 43 locals and 8 expatriates.