Coronavirus Pune: PMC unsure about opening gardens

After the end of lockdown 4.0 on May 31, the government of Maharashtra launched its guidelines for ‘Mission Begin Again.’ As per the guidelines provided by the State, people are now allowed to go for a walk and exercise in open spaces in their neighbourhood while wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.

But the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) seems to be a little apprehensive about opening gardens and parks just yet, as fear exists of increasing the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Adding to the concerns, the scarcity of security guards is another reason for the PMCs conundrum over opening op of public spaces. 

Another reason for the PMC to be unsure over the opening up of public spaces for exercise is, the authorities worry whether the people using these facilities will abide by the rules. Authorities also fear that while exercising, citizens may not wear masks, thus risking the spread of the disease.

Discussing the matter, a senior PMC official said told a media organisation, that the guards had been employed at hospitals and quarantine centres since the gardens were shut during the lockdown. These guards cannot be moved from those places for now. Stating the other concern, she said that runners and joggers might not wear a mask when exercising.

Currently, the officials are looking for options to open these spaces in a restricted manner to be able to control the activity.

While fitness enthusiasts were looking forward to being able to get back to their exercise regimes after the State’s announcement, the phased-out opening of activities will likely take time. The sports enthusiasts are upset over the unclarity and have expressed concerns.

As per the guidelines, parks and gardens could be opened for exercise, while maintaining social distancing, from June 3. A final order is expected today.