PANDEMIC

Northern Cyprus toughens COVID-19 measures

6-day curfew from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., total lockdown on Sunday

Working hours for grocery stores have also been shortened for an hour this week – markets will remain open between 7 AM and 8 PM. Illustration / AA

H. J. I. / AA

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on Monday toughened coronavirus restrictions, including curfews and shortening of working hours.

According to decisions taken by the Council of Ministers, a 9PM to 5 AM curfew is being implemented from Monday to Saturday until April 26, while a total lockdown will take effect on Sunday.

Working hours for grocery stores have also been shortened for an hour this week – markets will remain open between 7 AM and 8 PM.

Indoor and outdoor coffee houses and cafes are allowed to operate, but customers must be limited to one-third of the total capacity.

Meanwhile, mass worship in mosques and public iftars (sunset meal during Ramadan) are not allowed.

The TRNC has so far confirmed 3,913 COVID-19 cases and 24 related deaths. Vaccination drive against the disease also continues. More than 58,800 people have received their first dose, while over 48,500 have been fully vaccinated.