Mauritius Curfew and Exams: Key Facts for Tuesday 13 October

Mauritius is facing a significant moment of social tension, with the government announcing a nationwide curfew and a series of emergency measures on Tuesday 13 October. Here is what residents, students, workers, and travellers need to know.

Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam ordered a curfew running from 8:30pm on Tuesday evening to 6am on Wednesday morning. The measure was introduced in response to public unrest, with authorities citing risks to public order and safety across the island.

Breaking the curfew is a serious offence under Mauritius law. Police Superintendent Dowlut confirmed that anyone found outside without a valid reason during the curfew hours faces up to five years in prison. Residents are strongly advised to remain at home during those hours unless they have an essential or authorised reason to be out.

Despite the unrest, the government confirmed that SC (School Certificate) and HSC (Higher School Certificate) national examinations will go ahead as planned. These are the two most important public exams in the Mauritian education system, taken by students at the end of secondary school and the equivalent of O-Levels and A-Levels respectively. Candidates who face difficulties arriving on time on Wednesday will be allowed a degree of flexibility, with late arrivals to be accommodated.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (SSR) International Airport, located at Plaisance in the south of the island, remains open and operational throughout the curfew period. Travellers with flights are advised to arrive at least three hours before departure to allow for additional checks and any delays caused by road conditions.

The Central Water Authority (CWA), which manages drinking water supply across Mauritius, has confirmed it will continue operations throughout the curfew to ensure uninterrupted water access for all households.

Bread deliveries, a daily essential for many Mauritian families, are set to resume from 6am on Wednesday once the curfew lifts, restoring normal supply to supermarkets, bakeries, and households.

Metro Express, the light rail service connecting Port Louis to Curepipe through the central corridor, has suspended operations for Wednesday. A restart is expected within approximately one week, though no firm date has been confirmed.

Business Mauritius, the main private sector employers' federation, announced it would issue guidelines for businesses and workers at 6:30am on Wednesday, advising companies on how to manage the working day in the context of the curfew and ongoing disruption.

Authorities have also warned that a specific group has been actively attempting to incite violence, and that anyone involved in illegal acts will face serious legal consequences. Prime Minister Ramgoolam addressed the nation directly, urging calm and warning that the rule of law will be enforced.

The Council of Ministers is scheduled to meet again on Wednesday to assess the situation and determine whether further measures are needed.

What this means: For most residents, the immediate priority is to be home before 8:30pm Tuesday and to expect some disruption to transport and services on Wednesday. Students sitting exams should attend as normal and contact their exam centre if they anticipate delays. Businesses should await official guidance from Business Mauritius before opening Wednesday morning.

Source: Le Defi Media