The Algerian government has decided to extend partial home confinement in 29 wilayas across the country, effective from Saturday, January 16, 2021. This measure aims to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect citizens' health. The confinement will be in place from 8 PM to 5 AM the following day. The decision was made under the instructions of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and in consultation with the scientific committee monitoring the pandemic's evolution.
The 29 wilayas affected by the partial home confinement include Laghouat, Oum El Bouaghi, Batna, Bejaia, Biskra, Blida, Bouira, Tebessa, Tlemcen, Tizi-Ouzou, Alger, Jijel, Sétif, Sidi Bel Abbes, Annaba, Guelma, Constantine, Médéa, Mostaganem, M’Sila, Mascara, Oran, Boumerdes, El Tarf, Tissemsilt, Souk Ahras, Tipaza, Ain Temouchent, and Relizane. On the other hand, 19 wilayas will not be subject to this measure, including Adrar, Chlef, Béchar, Tamenghasset, Tiaret, Djelfa, Saïda, Skikda, Ouargla, El Bayadh, Illizi, Bordj Bou Arréridj, Tindouf, El Oued, Khenchela, Mila, Ain Defla, Naâma, and Ghardaia.
The government has also decided to maintain the continuity of public passenger transportation services, including air, road, and rail transport. However, these services will operate under strict health protocols, including limited capacity and mandatory mask-wearing. For air transport, 50% of flights serving northern wilayas and all flights serving southern wilayas will operate, with strict health protocols in place. Road transport will be limited to 50% capacity for buses and autocars, with 5 people allowed in 9-seat vehicles and 4 people in 7-seat vehicles.
In addition to transportation, the government has extended the closure of certain activities and establishments for 15 days in the 29 wilayas under partial confinement. These include vehicle sales markets, sports halls and facilities, recreational and leisure centers, and beaches. Cafes, restaurants, and fast-food establishments will only be allowed to operate for take-out services. The operating hours of certain businesses will also be limited, with closure required by 7 PM.
The government has also reiterated its call for citizens to exercise caution and remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19. The authorities will monitor the situation and enforce sanctions against those who fail to comply with the measures put in place. The Walis, or local governors, will have the authority to take additional measures, including the closure of centers and establishments that fail to adhere to health protocols.
The extension of partial home confinement and other measures aims to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Algeria, which has been struggling to contain the pandemic. The government has been working to balance the need to protect public health with the need to maintain economic and social activities. The situation will continue to be monitored, and adjustments will be made as necessary to address the evolving pandemic.
Key points of the new measures include the extension of partial home confinement in 29 wilayas, the continuity of public transportation services under strict health protocols, and the closure of certain activities and establishments. The government has urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to combat the pandemic. The measures will be in effect for 15 days, starting from January 16, 2021.
Key points
- Algeria extends partial home confinement in 29 wilayas to combat COVID-19
- The measures will be in effect for 15 days, starting from January 16, 2021
- The government urges citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to combat the pandemic
