The four-day nationwide curfew that accompanied the Ramadan Bayram restrictions has ended, but a new set of restrictions will be in effect during the holiday. According to a new circular sent by the Ministry of Interior to the governorates of all 81 provinces, a curfew will be enforced during the days of Ramadan Bayram. The circular specifies which places will remain open and which will close during the curfew from 23 May to 26 May.
In line with the circular issued to 81 provincial governorships, a range of measures have been adopted to limit the spread of the coronavirus during the holiday period. The curfew aims to minimize health risks associated with the pandemic. Following a cabinet meeting chaired by the President and taking into account recommendations from the Scientific Committee and lessons learned in the fight against COVID-19, it was decided that a curfew will be applied nationwide on the eve of the holiday and on 23, 24, 25 and 26 May 2020.
Places That Will Remain Open During the Curfew
The circular states that the curfew will be effective from 22 May 00:00 until 26 May 24:00. To reduce the impact on daily life, certain businesses will be allowed to open before and during the curfew. On 21 and 22 May these businesses may remain open until 23:00 to allow residents to prepare. On Saturday 23 May, markets, small grocery stores (bakkals), greengrocers, butchers and nut shops will be open between 10:00 and 17:00.
Except for citizens aged 65 and over and those 20 and under, people may use these services in a limited way to meet essential needs, provided they do not drive. During the permitted hours, grocery stores, greengrocers, butchers and nut vendors may also deliver to homes. On 24 and 26 May these same retail outlets and businesses that sell online will remain closed. However, bakeries and licensed pastry businesses that produce bread will stay open on 23 and 26 May to ensure the availability of bread and baked goods.
On-Duty Fuel Stations and Their Shops Will Be Open
During the curfew days of 23 May and 26 May, certain services will remain available to provide home delivery and essential supplies:
- Restaurants and eateries providing package or delivery service,
- Production and supply of medicines,
- Medical device production and supply,
- Production and supply of medical masks and disinfectants,
- Public and private health institutions and organizations,
- Pharmacies,
- Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals,
- Public institutions and enterprises necessary to maintain essential public services,
- A limited number of fuel stations and tire repair services—one station per 50 kilometers as designated—