Task force to crack down on mask violators

Mangaluru: In the wake of increasing Covid cases and people’s refusal to wear masks, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has formed a task force that will visit shops, other business premises and public places to penalize and educate people on the importance of wearing masks in the battle against the pandemic.
The city corporation decided to launch the drive after finding people either ignoring the rule completely or wearing the mask only to cover their chin.
MCC commissioner Ajith Kumar Hegde told TOI the main aim of conducting drives is to create awareness. "Our health inspectors have been creating awareness on the importance of masks and also the fine that will be imposed if caught without it. At present, the penalty is Rs 200. Some wear masks, but do not cover their mouth and nose," Hegde said.
Meanwhile, the city corporation has also banned entry of the the general public inside the MCC office for one week in the wake of spike in Covid cases. This follows after the daughter of a health inspector tested positive for Covid-19.
"Since the health inspector reported for duty, we have decided to sanitize the entire building," the commissioner.