Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has said that a decision will be taken soon on whether all commuters in Mumbai are allowed to travel by suburban local trains and Covid restrictions have been eased for hotels and restaurants. He said a final decision on the matter would be taken after consulting the COVID situation and experts and health officials.
Thackeray was speaking at BEST’s foundation day celebrations on Friday, during which he inaugurated 24 new electric buses and the redeveloped Mahim bus station.
“Yesterday (on Thursday), I had a meeting with hotel and restaurant owners. I have requested him to be patient for a few days. People also wanted local (train) to start. Though the Covid cases are decreasing in Mumbai and other parts, we are also on alert to ensure that we do not take any wrong step,” said Thackeray.
He said, “We are opening things up step by step looking at the current situation and trying to ensure that Covid does not come back like it did after the first wave. We need to be alert. We are in talks with experts and health officials. When and what will be opened, a decision will be taken in two to five days.
He further said, ‘Best and local trains are the lifeline of Mumbai. For some time now the cycle of nature is changing and hence it is necessary to protect the environment. Introducing these electric buses is a revolutionary step by BEST. Modernization of Mahim Bus Depot will bring great convenience and relief to the passengers and employees.
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