Prohibitory orders in Kathmandu Valley have once again been extended by another week–until September 9 midnight.

Chief district officers of Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur on Wednesday decided to continue the restrictions, saying there has been no let up in the coronavirus infection cases.

“In view of the continuous increase in the coronavirus cases, we have decided to extend the ongoing prohibitory orders for one more week,” said Narayan Prasad Bhatta, chief district officer of Lalitpur. “We are trying to make the restrictions more effective.”

Bhatta, however, said a standard for online home delivery is being prepared and home delivery will be allowed with strict implementation of the health protocol.

This is the second extension of the prohibitory orders in the Valley after it was first imposed on August 19 midnight for a week. The second extension was due to expire on Wednesday midnight.

According to a notice, the chief district officers have also decided that anyone wishing to enter the Valley for emergency work must have the coronavirus RT PCR negative report.

The time frame for purchasing essential goods has also been extended till 11am from the previous 9am. The authorities have also allowed shops and vehicles related to development works from 2pm to 9pm.

National pride projects and industries related to essential services can also operate by setting up quarantine facilities.

The local administrations in the Valley have also instructed the ward committee offices to monitor whether the people whose swabs have been taken for the coronavirus test and those on the list of contact tracing are living in home isolation.

“Those violating home quarantine rules will be punished as per the Infectious Disease Act 1964,” states the notice.