17 Sep 2021 | 11:56 AM UTC
Laos: Authorities tighten travel restrictions in Vientiane Capital through Sept. 30 /update 5
Officials tighten travel restrictions in Vientiane Capital, Laos, through Sept. 30. Other measures ongoing; disruptions likely.
Event
Authorities have tightened travel restrictions in Vientiane Capital through Sept. 30 due to COVID-19 activity. All individuals entering Vientiane Capital from Bokeo, Champasack, Khammouane, and Savannakhet provinces must quarantine for 14 days at a designated facility.
The Cambodian government employs a multi-tier system from levels 1 to 4 in order of increasing severity to measure an outbreak in a province. Residents of Vientiane Capital cannot travel provinces designated as level 2 or 3 unless with permission from the authorities; returning individuals must quarantine for 14 days at a designated facility. Officials are maintaining heightened security measures, including at checkpoints across Vientiane, to ensure compliance with the latest restrictions.
Other restrictions remain in place. An overnight 22:00-05:00 curfew is in effect. Officials prohibit road traffic during the curfew except for freight, government, and emergency vehicles. Authorities also banned gatherings as well as conferences and meetings with more than 20 participants. Individuals must wear a facemask in public and observe social distancing. Sports and recreational establishments like cinemas and pubs must remain closed. Restaurants may open for dine-in customers but must adhere to social distancing protocols and close by 21:00. Significant business disruptions will likely continue, particularly in areas enacting stricter curbs. Additional extensions are possible, depending on COVID-19 activity.
Officials continue to categorize localities in Vientiane Capital as red, yellow, and green zones, in decreasing order of COVID-19 activity and strictness of measures. A ban on inter-provincial travel is in effect in red zones, which include up to 20 localities in Chantabouly, Hadxayfong, Saysettha, Sikhottabong, Sisattana, and Xaythany districts. Locals in red zones cannot leave their residences, including for work. Exemptions are likely in place for people facing emergencies, among others. Officials will probably maintain increased security protocols to enforce restrictions, especially in red zones.
Advice
Heed the instructions of authorities. Avoid nonessential operations in areas impacted by the restrictions. Confirm transport reservations. Remain cooperative if questioned by law enforcement officers.
