Addu Emergency Operations Centre (AEOC) has extended the duration for delivery services and construction work in Addu City.
At a press conference, the Mayor of Addu Ali Nizar said the city council has decided to provide leeway in the COVID-19 restrictions. As such AEOC stated construction work can continue until 1800hrs, but workers are only allowed to leave the site during curfew hours in a vehicle permitted by the construction company or with another permit from the authorities.
The duration for takeaway and delivery services have also been extended to 2200hrs after a petition was filed by local businesses. AEOC noted it no longer allows prayer congregations and will continue to impose a curfew from 1600hrs to 0400hrs.
Mayor Nizar said changes have been made to ease restrictions for struggling small businesses and will continue to provide more leeway in accordance with the situation. He added the current situation still does not allow people to go out in public.
Furthermore, AEOC has revealed that residents can use ferry services to travel between the connected islands twice a week for essential tasks.
There are currently 50 COVID-19 patients receiving treatment in Addu, and 324 individuals have tested positive from the city since April 30.