With the ease in the nationwide lockdown, Government has allowed inter-state traffic movement. On 29 June, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued unlock 2 guidelines. In reference to inter – state movement, the Ministry’s instructions were pretty clear – States/ Union Territories, may prohibit certain activities outside the Containment zones, or impose such restrictions as deemed necessary.
But, there shall be no restriction on inter-State and intra-State movement of persons and goods including those for cross land-border trade even under Treaties with neighboring countries. There is no requirement of e-permit for such movements.
However, certain states like – Assam, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu can operate inter – state travelling with the application of e-pass as a lot of cases have recently hiked in the given countries.
So, here is the checklist before anyone applies for the e-pass:
1) Fill in all the mandatory details carefully and submit.
3) Keep the scanned copy of the requisite documents before applying.
4) Use an active mobile number to receive verification OTP.
5) Once the successful submission of application will be done, an application reference number will get generated. Please note it for tracking the application status.
6) e-pass should contain your name, address, validity and a QR code.
7) Never forget to keep a soft/hard copy of the e-pass while traveling and always show it to the security personnel on having asked.
Here are a few other inter-state travel guidelines:
- The people travelling outside the state via road (except scheduled buses) will be screened and get their IDs verified at interstate borders.
- Counters for travel passes shall be set up by bus stands to provide on – spot passes after ID verification.
Other general guidelines that people must follow for personal safety:
- Carry disinfectant with yourself: Carry a hand sanitizer (with more than 60% alcohol content), tissues, disinfectant wipes and a face mask. These items will help maintain a certain level of hygiene.
- Wipe up your surroundings: It’s better to clean up the seat before sitting. A generous amount of sanitizer whenever you touch any of these surfaces and be careful not to touch your face.
- Don’t drink outside water: Carry your own water, skip drinking outside water. It will keep you refrained from infections.
- Minimize Human Contact: Wherever possible, try to rely on technology and automation. In terms of food and retail outlets within the airport, don’t touch common surfaces. Go for contactless options.
- Eat, chew natural infection fighters: Chew Tulsi, Ginger, or Cloves. These are the natural eatable items to boost immunity.
- Cover sneezes and coughs with a tissue paper: Use a tissue paper or a handkerchief to cover your mouth at the time of sneezes and coughs.
- Sanitize all your belongings before leaving: Make sure you sanitize all your belongings before leaving the house – your water bottle, luggage and hand bag.
- Cooperate with officials: Last, but not the least, always be ready to co-operate with the officials giving emergency duty.
Travel allows you meet people of different cultures belonging to different traditions and distinctive lifestyles. It helps experience you real scenarios, and become mature. Travel industry also contributes a lot towards our economy. Hence, inspite of Coronavirus spread; the Government couldn’t shut air, train and inter-state travelling for a longer period of time. Now, it is our duty to respect the Government decision by following the guidelines – ‘travel in lockdown’ announced by the Government. We wish you all the best for the upcoming journey. Be safe, and let others be safe.