In a bid to prevent people from unnecessarily flocking outside amid peak COVID horror of the second wave, the Uttar Pradesh cabinet has issued an e-pass system for public movement across the state. According to this order, the general public, except those involved in essential services, require an authorised electronic pass to validate their travel. However, in an extension of the e-pass order, the state has clarified ambiguities and listed categories of services alongside public movements, that would not require an e-pass.
Travel without an e-pass permitted for the following:
The Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department issued an order on Tuesday, distinguishing population categories who are permitted to travel without the special provision of an e-pass. The list includes:
- People involved in industrial activities
- Travel for medical/essential good or services and transportation of essential goods
- People working in medical, healthcare and industrial units
- People involved in e-commerce operations
- People facing medical emergencies
- Telecommunication and postal services
- Personnel related to print and electronic media
- People involved in internet services
All other categories need to get an e-pass from the designated authorities before travel. These can be procured from the portal of the e-pass management system. Reportedly, the validity of the pass will last for one day for intra-district travel and will be issued by the SDM after verification of documents. The validity of the pass will be extended for two days for inter-district travel and will be awarded by the Additional District Magistrate. The permission for inter-state travel would be granted by the District Magistrate.
