Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro Mayor extends restrictive measures, but relaxes distancing

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Rio de Janeiro City Hall has extended restrictive measures in the city until September 20. The change that drew attention in the decree issued by Mayor Eduardo Paes (PSD) is the relaxation in social distancing measures.

Henceforth, the minimum distance has been reduced from 4 to 1 meter in gyms,
swimming pools, and training centers. In stores, services, cinemas, tourist attractions, parks, and museums, the minimum distance was reduced from 1.5 meters to 1 meter.

Another change in restrictive measures concerns maximum occupancy, which is
now 60%, regardless of whether premises are open or closed.

A measure maintained by the City is the ban of events in nightclubs and dance floors. But the decree cites the possibility of applying for trial events. Three of these are the local Flamengo team soccer matches at Maracanã, to be held on September 15, 19, and 22.

The presence of fans will be partial and gradual, starting with 35% of the stadium’s capacity until reaching 50%. On Wednesday, September 8, the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro said that “it is possible to hold any event, within a certain dimension, while respecting protocols.”

Rio de Janeiro Health Secretary Daniel Soranz said that the return of Flamengo fans to Maracanã will be “Covid-free.” He detailed the rules for Flamengo fans to buy tickets for matches at the stadium.

MAINTAINED RULES

However, some restrictive measures have been maintained, such as distancing in bars, snack bars, restaurants and kiosks. Consumption is only allowed for seated customers with a minimum distance of 1.5 meters. Live music is still allowed.

In show venues, concerts, performances, and samba circles, shows are allowed but with a minimum distance of 1 meter between spectators. The maximum capacity remains at 60%, with seated audiences only.