Noida gives RWAs final say on entry of domestic staff

Noida: Clearing the air on what can and cannot be allowed in a society and the degree to which RWAs can take a call on each matter, the district administration on Wednesday released a set of broad guidelines for residents. The entry of domestic staff is now allowed, with riders. Those repairing air conditioners will also now be let in, without riders. And those wanting to step out for a walk can do so, effectively, only if they have a pet.
RWAs will take a final call on whether domestic and other support staff will be allowed into their societies after consulting residents and arriving at a consensus. If allowed, only those living in non-containment zones will be allowed to enter and RWAs must arrange thermal scanning at the gate.
For the domestic staff, there is an added caveat — a one-house cap. “Domestic staff who are permitted can only go to one house, no more. We have had a rising number of cases and multiple contacts can be dangerous. We hope the residents come to a consensus on the matter,” said Narendra Bhooshan, the nodal for the district’s Covid-19 response. The one-house cap, however, does not apply to the drivers, car cleaners and laundry staff who may be permitted.
“This was allowed because their point of contact would be minimal,” an official said.
The rules governing entry of service staff have been relaxed to a certain extent. Apart from the electricians and plumbers, those engaged in repair or maintenance of fans, water purifiers, refrigerators, washing machines, internet and (in a new addition) air conditioners will be allowed entry. They may be called twice a week, on days decided by the RWAs, and can enter without passes. No decision, however, was taken on those engaged in television or DTH repair. It will be taken up in a few days, an official said.
While walking remains “not permitted”, those taking their pets out will be allowed. Stipulating a “minimum possible time” of 15-20 minutes, the district administration gave a breather to those with pets.
“Residents to ensure sanitary measures be exercised,” the guidelines state. The common areas are out of bounds and lifts could be, if RWAs decide so.
“Taking a walk was not allowed because many had been violating social distancing norms while doing so. We will see what can be done after the third phase of the lockdown is over,” said Bhooshan, adding, as an advice, “People should stay home and engage in other activities, like yoga.”
Finally, on what has been an enduring point of controversy, the guidelines state RWAs have to ensure doorstep delivery of essentials — by assigning volunteers, staff or external vendors. The process has been left up to them but they cannot ask residents to collect items from the gate or the lobby.