Travelling in and around Maharashtra during the National Lockdown with ePass
It’s been a while since we all travelled. Now, all we want to do is leave the mortifying city and run away to a private home; away from the fear, anxiety and hassles that COVID-19 has unwelcomingly showered on us. While the State and Union Governments have eased some lockdown restrictions, you still need an E-Pass to venture out of city limits. This article tells you how to get and ePass for movement and sheds light on everything you need to know about obtaining and travelling in and around Mumbai/Pune with an ePass.
Disclaimer: Stay Safe and Travel Responsibly
Q. What documents do I need to obtain an ePass?
A. Here is the list of documents needed to apply for an ePass:
- A passport-size photo of the Driver/ Applicant (Size Limit: 200 KB)
- Aadhar Card (pdf version)
- Driving Licence (pdf version)
- RC Book of the Vehicle (pdf version)
- You need a valid doctor certificate/medical certificate/fitness certificate (Size Limit: 1 MB)
If you are applying from within Mumbai City, you can upload each individual’s documents separately. If you are applying from outside Mumbai city, you need to zip each type of document from each individual into a single file.
Q. Where can I get a Doctor Certificate/Medical Certificate/Fitness Certificate? What must it certify?
A. You can obtain a valid certificate from your local doctor, General Practioner (GP) or hospital. Some doctors may charge a small fee, others may not.
This document certifies that the holder:
– Is fit to travel
– Has not travelled abroad in the past 2 weeks
– Is showing no signs or symptoms of COVID-19
– And has recorded a temperature below 99.1° F at the time of application
Q. Where can I apply for an ePass?
A. The Maharashtra Government has set up an extremely easy-to-use, bilingual website for applications: https://covid19.mhpolice.in/
Q. What details do I need to fill in the application?
To start the process, you need to specify whether you are travelling within the state or need to step outside Maharashtra state borders:
These are the forms for Intra-State and Inter-State Travel:
Q. What is the process to apply for an e-Pass for residents of Mumbai City?
A. Once you select Mumbai City in the ‘Select District/Police Commissioner’, you will be redirected to the Mumbai Police page.
Select your reason to travel and fill in the required details. Every field has a Marathi and English explanation.
You are more likely to get an e-pass issued in your name if you apply from Pune.
Q. Where do I need to upload the documents?
A. After filling in the required details on the top half, scroll down to the second section:
Q. How soon can I expect a response to my e-Pass application?
A. After successful submission of your application, an application reference number will be generated. Please note it to track the application status.
If you are applying for an e-Pass from Mumbai City, you will get a response within 24 hours of your application, stating whether your request has been ACCEPTED OT REJECTED. If you are applying from Thane, Kalyan, Badlapur, Panvel or surrounding areas, expect a response within 6 hours of your application.
You are more likely to get an e-pass issued in your name if you apply from Pune.
Q. Can I travel hassle-free after securing an E-Pass?
A. Yes! Since your request to travel has been approved by the Government of Maharashtra, you should not face any trouble while travelling. Please co-operate with local authorities and governing bodies when travelling within or outside your state of departure; they are putting themselves at risk to ensure we control the spread of this virus 🙂
Q. Where can I travel from Mumbai or Pune?
A. With a valid ePass you can travel anywhere in Maharashtra, but it is advisable to stick to non-crowded spots and destinations. Choose a private villa, bungalow or estate over a hotel, and take your personal help along if that suits you.
The most favoured and best getaway destinations from Mumbai and Pune still remain Lonavala, Karjat, Alibaug, Panchgani and Kamshet. Drivable destinations (or drestinations as we call them) are the future of travel. If you wish to travel, you can take a road trip in your private car anywhere 2-6 hours from your residence.
Most local authorities demand that travellers/guests/customers check-in, and stay put in their private villa for minimum 7-14 days when they are travelling from Mumbai or Pune.
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