Attempting to curb unnecessary travel, the Kerala state government has mandated an e-pass for any movement. We tell you how to clinch one for yourself in case travelling cannot be stalled to a later date. By Bayar Jain
Strict measures are being taken by @TheKeralaPolice to enforce the lockdown. Passes for emergency travel and model of affidavit can be obtained through https://t.co/ucAqGPsCIR. Inter District travel isn’t encouraged, except in cases of death or severe illness.
— CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) May 8, 2021
In light of the second wave in the nation, Kerala Chief Minister (CM), Pinarayi Vijayan took to Twitter to announce the extension on the state-wide lockdown. In effect till May 16 midnight, this extension only exempts essential services and medical movements. However, noting that some may require to travel for emergencies, the state government has mandated an e-pass for the same, as tweeted by the state CM.
Attempting to keep things simple, the procedure for obtaining an e-pass in Kerala is straightforward as well. Upon heading to the state’s official e-pass portal, you will have to fill in the required details such as name, purpose, date of birth, vehicle type and number, destination (both, departure from and arrival to), and dates of travel. A valid ID must also be furnished at this stage. After submitting the form, the pass—once approved—will be sent to the registered mobile number. You will be required to carry this e-pass in case you need to step out.
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Elaborating further on who needs an e-pass to travel in Kerala, The Hindu notes that the government has mandated the same only for domestic workers, manual labourers, and those working in the essential service sector. Additionally, while CM Vijayan advises avoiding inter-district movement, those shifting wards or travelling for funerals or weddings of close relatives can avail a pass from the same portal as well.
Urging citizens to restrict venturing far even for food, the state government has mentioned that a simple affidavit listing the purpose of travel will suffice. To ease the process, a sample format of the affidavit is available on the official e-pass portal. The same affidavit is also required when travelling for COVID-19 vaccinations.
Editor’s Note: Keeping the current situation of the pandemic in mind, T+L India recommends every reader to stay safe, and take all government-regulated precautions in case travel at this time is absolutely necessary. Please follow our stories on #IndiaFightsCorona for all the latest travel guidelines.
Related: How To Travel Safely During The Pandemic, According To An Epidemiologist
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