Maharashtra has been asking for a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test report from travellers originating from some states for quite some time. These states include Gujarat, Delhi, Rajasthan, West Bengal etc. The state has now changed the entry requirements.
Under the new entry requirements, any person travelling to Maharashtra using any mode of travel will have to present a negative RTPCR report with the sample having been collected within the past 48 hours before the time of entry into Maharashtra.
For cargo carriers, only two people (driver and helper) will be allowed on the vehicle. They will also have to present a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test report. Their report will be considered valid for 7 days after entering Maharashtra.
These new rules are effective tomorrow (15th May 2021). Note that the new rules require a sample that is collected within 48 hours prior to arrival as compared to the 72-hour period required earlier.
SpiceJet and Indigo have issued an update regarding the same:
Passengers travelling to Pune, Nagpur and Aurangabad can test on arrival at the airport. However, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport will not allow for testing at the airport and anyone who does not present a negative RT-PCR test report will be denied boarding.
Those who are travelling to Maharashtra anytime soon by air are advised to contact their respective airline for further information regarding the entry requirements. Also, it is advised that passengers do not depend on getting tested on arrival since there is no uniform policy in the state at the moment.
What do you think of Maharashtra’s latest entry requirements? Let me know in the comments section below.
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