India, Pakistan ease restrictions for some small businesses amid lockdown

NARINDER NANU / AFP

India allowed the reopening of local stores from Saturday, more than a month after the country went into lockdown to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

It said retail shops could operate with 50% of staff and implement social distancing guidelines for customers.

However, large market places and malls will remain shut until May 3.

So far, the country has reported 24,506 cases of the coronavirus and 775 deaths.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has extended the nationwide lockdown till May 9, but switched to a so-called "smart lockdown" from Saturday that'll allow some  industrial and commercial activities to begin under safety guidelines.

It'll mainly target tracking and tracing of positive cases, officials explained.

Pakistan has reported 11,940 cases of infections, including 253 deaths.

More from International news

Recently Played

Latest Blogs

  • PINOY BULLETIN: JUNE 16 - 20, 2025

    Pinoy Expat Corner

    Welcome to Pinoy Bulletin, your go-to source for staying informed about important announcements, exciting group activities, community events, and job opportunities! Make sure to tune in every weekdays to Tag Gising Na from 5AM - 10 AM for a comprehensive roundup of important updates

  • PINOY BULLETIN: JUNE 09 - 13, 2025

    Pinoy Expat Corner

    Welcome to Pinoy Bulletin, your go-to source for staying informed about important announcements, exciting group activities, community events, and job opportunities! Make sure to tune in every weekdays to Tag Gising Na from 5AM - 10 AM for a comprehensive roundup of important updates.

  • PINOY BULLETIN: JUNE 02 - 06, 2025

    Pinoy Expat Corner

    Welcome to Pinoy Bulletin, your go-to source for staying informed about important announcements, exciting group activities, community events, and job opportunities! Make sure to tune in every weekdays to Tag Gising Na from 5AM - 10 AM for a comprehensive roundup of important updates.