Omicron: Lakshadweep revises travel regulations

Effects of Omicron, the new mutant of COVID-19 virus, can now be seen closer home with a number of states revising their travel guidelines to prevent any possible outbreak. Lakshadweep, one of the most loved beach destination in India, has also followed suit and revised its regulations for travellers.

Now on, all visitors to Lakshadweep will have to carry a negative RT-PCR test report, conducted within 48 hours of travel dates. These rules are also applicable to crew of various ships, vessels and other boats in the region. The administrative authorities of Lakshadweep have also put it new quarantine norms, and all arrivals will have to undergo 3-day mandatory quarantine. The same will not be applicable on fully vaccinated travellers.

Fully vaccinated people will also not need a COVID test result in case of inter-island travel. The authorities have also made it clear that everyone needs to strictly adhere to COVID preventive measures, and practice appropriate behaviour as well.

An order has been issued in the regard, stating that "Wearing of face masks is an essential preventive measure. In order to enforce this core requirement, any person found without wearing a mask in public/workplaces shall be levied a fine of INR 100 at the first instance and INR 200 at second instance of violation."