Gov't may lift coronavirus-related restrictions earlier if virus contained

Head of the government administration Natia Mezvrishvili said some coronavirus-related restrictions imposed in Georgia may be eased earlier than planned, if the virus is contained. 

Mezvrishvili noted that although the recently introduced 6-phase plan considers lifting the restrictions step-by-step, it might be possible to move from one phase to another earlier if citizens follow all of the recommendations of healthcare officials precisely.

Primarily, this means maintaining social distance, wearing face masks and [observing] other state of emergency restrictions", Mezvrishvili stated.

She also added that some of the restrictions can be reintroduced even after being lifted  in certain areas, whenever necessary.

Photo: Nino Alavidze/Agenda.ge

Speaking with Imedi TV today, Mezvrishvili again noted that public transport and international flights will not be restored yet. 

• How the gov't plans to help businesses reopen after coronavirus subsides

However, she said, next week the government will be discussing the issue of reopening the four cities of Georgia - Tbilisi, Rustavi, Kutaisi and Batumi - which have been on lockdown since April 15.

• Farmers in Georgian regions allowed to drive cars during transport restrictions

As of now, residents of Tbilisi are only allowed to leave the capital for agricultural works between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m. and return between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. after they apply to the Agriculture Ministry for special permit.