Large-scale commercial activities resumed across Karnataka after the Covid-19 rules were relaxed as part of the third phase of unlocking. Except for two districts-Kodagu and Hassan-where restrictions remained in place, the entire state of Karnataka saw brisk activity. There was a rush at shopping malls and places of worship that reopened after a two-month hiatus. Buses, both public and private, began operating in large numbers. Several districts reported increased traffic for extended periods
The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operated approximately 4,500 trips, while the other three corporations operated a total of 7,000 to 8,000 trips. On the first day, several shopping malls in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangalore, and Hubballi saw a significant increase in footfall. According to mall managers, there was a 30-40% turnout.
It was observed that no temple served ‘theertha’ or ‘prasad’ to devotees. Only darshans were permitted. Devotees flocked to pilgrimage sites such as Dharmasthala, Kukke Subramanya, Sringeri, and Ghati Subramanya. Tourism activities have also picked up steam, with the Unesco World Heritage Site Hampi seeing a significant increase in domestic visitors.
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