Haryana restrictions: Malls and markets have been allowed to stay open till 5 PM. (File)
Cinema halls and sports complexes will be closed in Gurgaon and four other cities in Haryana as part of restrictions imposed on Saturday by the state government in view of a surge in coronavirus cases and the emergence of Omicron variant. Schools are also closed till January 12.
Besides, both government and private offices, except those providing emergency and essential services, have been advised to function with 50 per cent staff in attendance.
These restrictions will come into force in Gurgaon, Faridabad, Ambala, Panchkula and Sonipat districts, which have the highest daily infection rates, from today (January 2) and remain in force till January 12, according to a government order.
Malls and markets have been allowed to stay open till 5 PM, while bars and restaurants have been permitted to function with only 50 per cent of their seating capacity.
The restrictions were imposed in view of a persistent rise in coronavirus cases in the state and the emergence of the new Omicron variant, the order said.
Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar will hold a meeting with top officials today to review the situation.
Besides, the order by the State Disaster Management Authority said only fully vaccinated persons shall be allowed at vegetable markets, public transport, parks, religious places, restaurants, and other places across the state.
Haryana reported 26 cases of the Omicron variant on Friday, with the total number of such cases rising to 63 in the state. Of the total cases, 23 are active while others have been discharged, said a health bulletin yesterday. The state had brought back night curfews a week ago.