Several coronavirus restrictions meant to be temporarily lifted this week to remain in force

The government of Georgia says that several coronavirus restrictions which were scheduled to be lifted between December 24 and January 2 will not take place to preserve a ‘positive dynamic’ in curbing the spread of the virus. 

The government says that the restrictions imposed since November 28 have made the situation stable. 

• PM Gakharia: we have slowed the spread of coronavirus

However, the rate of daily infections is still high and lifting the restrictions as was previously scheduled may have a negative influence on the general situation,” said the government. 

Per the government decision: 

• Municipal transport in Tbilisi, Rustavi, Kutaisi, Batumi, Gori, Zugdidi, Poti and Telavi will not work until January 31, 2021, nor will intercity transport. 
• Open markets will not open until January 31, 2021 (only agrarian markets will work). 
• Shopping centres, however, will be open between December 24 and January 2. 

An effective curfew will be temporarily lifted on December 31 and January 6 (for New Year and Christmas). Photo: Nino Alavidze/Agenda.ge.

Additional restrictions will be imposed: 

• shops will work between 07:00:19:00
• only one customer per every 20 square meters of space in a store will be allowed in 
• store administration must allow the management of queues both outside and inside the shops
• sales must be announced in the morning or for items available via online shopping only
• the return or exchange of items will be available for one month
• Food facilities will not be able to work in shopping malls, not even for takeaway service.  
• Restaurants in hotels will work until 21:00 (between December 24 and January 2). After 21:00 only room service will be available (to prevent the conduct of New Year events, concerts). 
• Restaurants and food facilities will continue only takeaway services. 
• An effective curfew will be in force between the hours of 21:00 and 05:00. The restriction will be temporarily lifted on December 31 and January 6 (for New Year and Christmas). 

Travel by car and taxi will not be restricted around the country, taking curfew into account.