In a bid to contain the spread of Covid-19, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) issued a new set of guidelines for market places.
According to the new guidelines, markets in containment zones will remain closed and only those outside containment zones will be allowed to function.
The MOHFW also urged that those in vulnerable categories (persons above 65 years of age, persons with comorbidities, pregnant women, and children below the age of 10 years) stay at home and only step out for essential purposes.
#IndiaFightsCorona #Unite2FightCorona
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) November 30, 2020
SOP on preventive measures in markets to contain spread of #COVID19 released.https://t.co/kcgRvHJfB9 pic.twitter.com/icXcJHEXmt
It also advised shop employees under high-risk categories to take extra precautions and stay away from any work involving direct contact with the public.
The Health Ministry said it will be contacting Market Owners Associations for the implementation of the advisory.
The ministry also called for the adherence of Covid-appropriate behaviour including physical distancing, use of face masks and routine sanitation.
According to the new guidelines, market associations will also have to form a sub-committee to facilitate and monitor the implementation of Covid-appropriate behaviour.
The guidelines also said that if self-regulation fails, enforcement agencies may impose measures such as the opening of markets on alternate days or even close markets in case a large number of cases are found linked to the area.