Tough quarantine is introduced in Kiev from March 20

Due to the rapid spread of coronavirus in the capital, the city commission on technogenic and environmental safety and emergencies is introducing severe quarantine restrictions, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said during a briefing on Thursday.

"From 00:00 on March 20, that is, on the night from Friday to Saturday, Kiev introduces severe quarantine restrictions, because we need to save people's health and lives," the mayor said.

He stressed that the severe quarantine in Kiev will approximately last three weeks.

"The work of cultural institutions will be prohibited, cinemas, theaters, museums, concert halls will be closed. The work of shopping and entertainment centers, except for grocery stores, pharmacies, pet stores, and stores selling hygiene products and household chemicals," Klitschko stressed.

He noted that the ban also covers the conduct of religious services, if the area of ​​the premises is not less than 10 square meters per person.

In addition, the mayor of the capital stressed that it will be prohibited to hold mass events (entertainment, sports, cultural, advertising and others), as well as the presence of spectators at sports competitions.

"The latter also applies to today's big football match, which will take place in Kiev," Klitschko said.

He noted that catering establishments will operate exclusively for take-out.

"To work – subject to strict standards and without work cafes – gas stations. Hairdressers, beauty salons work by appointment. As well as fitness and gyms – but without group classes", – said the mayor of Kiev.

He added that the capital's kindergartens will continue to work, and after the holidays, schools will return to study, but remotely.

"All enterprises and organizations in the public sector are switching to remote work, private business should also switch to a remote form of work as much as possible, except for critical infrastructure enterprises," Klitschko stressed.

He noted that public transport in the capital will work as usual with strict observance of the mask regime.

"With 50% occupancy of seats," the mayor said.

According to him, restrictions in Kiev are being introduced for three weeks – until April 9 inclusive.

"I urge everyone to treat the situation consciously and responsibly and comply with the restrictions that will be introduced! We need to gain time and do everything to prevent the collapse of the medical system. In order not to endanger people's lives!" Klitschko urged.