<span style="color: #222222;">The Maharashtra government today said that staggered working hours may be initiated in the state Secretariat so as to avoid crowding. In a letter issued by Chief Secretary, Sanjay Kumar, it said to facilitate the adherence to the norms of social distancing and to ensure avoidance of crowding, the staggered working hours could be initiated.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">A day after Maharashtra Chief Minister, Uddhav Thackeray directed Chief Secretary to work out on two shifts for Mantralaya staffers and officials, the state government today said that secretaries of the respective departments can decide on what form of staggering to adopt subject to adhering to the COVID-19 protocols. </span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">The letter said staggering could be in the form of calling the department personnel on alternate days, 3 days shifts and weekly shifts. Furthermore it said, respective secretaries can take a decision ensuring that work is not affected in case it is felt that even with full attendance without staggering all COVID-19 protocol can be maintained and safety of all personnel can be taken care of.</span><br />''