Decision on reopening classes depends on COVID-19 situation after Ganeshotsav: PMC Commissioner

Pune: Although the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has hinted at allowing reopening of coaching classes in the city from September 1, PMC Commissioner Vikram Kumar has clarified that the decision will depend on the COVID-19 situation in the city after the Ganeshotsav festival ends.

Private coaching classes for competitive exams, MBA, engineering and some other courses are likely to be started from September 1. Examinations for these courses will be held next year, and hence the students, parents and coaching class owners and operators have insisted on allowing the reopening of classroom teaching. PMC has said that a positive decision in this can be taken.

Meanwhile, a meeting of the PMC officials will be held on coming Friday (August 28) to review the current lockdown norms from September 1. The civic authorities are likely to relax the norms especially for coaching classes and private establishments and give them some more concessions.

Private tuition classes, including schools and colleges, are closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak in the city. Although most of the businesses have reopened on certain terms and conditions, the educational institutions have not yet started. The civic and district administration has not yet decided on it.

However, with the exams coming up next year, students and parents are demanding that at least private coaching classes should be allowed to reopen. The coaching class owners have also insisted on reopening of classrooms. Against this background, it is being speculated that coaching classes may be allowed to reopen.

The COVID-19 infection spread, its current status, healthcare facilities available are reviewed twice a month and accordingly, the civic body decides to impose restrictions or grant concessions to businesses and other activities in the city.

As a part of this review meeting, Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar will consider various demands about reopening of certain sectors and activities from September 1. Hotels are also expected to reopen as most of the terms and conditions regarding the markets have been eased now.