KATHMANDU: The government has formally announced the end to the nationwide lockdown enforced since March 24 to stem the spread of coronavirus.

Government Spokesperson and Minister for Finance, Communications and Information Technology Dr. Yubaraj Khatiwada said that cabinet meeting held on Monday ended the lockdown with effect from Tuesday midnight.

Holding a press conference at the ministry this evening, Minister Khatiwada said that even if the lockdown is lifted to reduce psychological panic, the government can declare prohibitory order in some places taking coronavirus risks into account.

The government has allowed short, medium and long-distance private and public transport, domestic and international flights to resume from August 17 while hotels, restaurants, trekking, travel and mountaineering businesses can operate from July 30.

Education institutions have been allowed to conduct activities including admission and examinations and international sports training and preliminary games can be held from August 17.

What are the restrictions?

But, the government has maintained restrictions in some areas.

Educational institutions, seminars, demonstrations and conferences, cinema halls, dance bars, entertainment venues, salons, beauty parlors, gyms, health clubs, group games, religious sites, libraries, museums and zoos will remain closed.