With cases in steep decline, MP may review curbs on travel from Maha

Nagpur: Even though travel restrictions have largely been eased within Maharashtra, entry into neighbouring Madhya Pradesh continues to require a RTPCR Covid negative report. There are chances that this may be reviewed in coming days and free movement may be allowed in some parts of the neighbouring state.
Due to proximity of districts in MP which are just 70 to 80 kms from Vidarbha towns, travel has been frequent in both directions. During normal times, forests in MP are favourite destinations for tourists from Vidarbha. MP had imposed a ban on travel from Maharashtra in February as Covid cases here began spiking.
A senior official in Jabalpur division said there may be a review soon. This will allow free entry for persons coming from Maharashtra side. Jabalpur division covers eight districts including Seoni, Balaghat and Chhindwara bordering Nagpur.
At present, a traveller from Maharashtra to Madhya Pradesh for 2-3 days has to produce a RTPCR negative report on returning. This includes residents of Madhya Pradesh too, said the officer.
There are no restrictions on a single day travel which is enabling daily commuters for employment.
TOI talked to senior officials in different districts of the state. It is learnt generally the curbs are for those taking the highways. However officials in Burhanpur said that RTPCR was insisted upon from travellers getting down from trains also.
Betul is another nearby district that does not come under Jabalpur division. An officer in the collectorate here said there has been no change so far. The curbs may remain till June 15, at least.
The official said the checks were being done mainly on the highways. Districts of MP border Vidarbha’s Nagpur and Amravati districts. Apart from tourism people cross the states for employment and medical treatment. A large number of patients reach Nagpur from Jabalpur and neighboring districts for treatment almost daily.