MUMBAI: Cracking the whip on private establishments, the government has warned it will shut down premises that do not follow norms, besides imposing a fine. So far, violators were either fined under the Epidemic Diseases Act or the Disaster Management Act, or police cases were filed against them.
Entry only to those wearing masks, temperature checks using a handheld device at the entrance of premises and sanitisers at convenient locations in the premises are among the rules that private establishments have been asked to strictly follow. Multiplexes and restaurants have been allowed to function at 50% capacity, and allowing more than the stipulated number will also amount to violation. The government has also asked these establishments to ensure the presence of enough manpower to enforce the mask rule as well as social distancing. The notification will be in force till March 31.
“Chief minister Uddhav Thackeray had a meeting with representatives of malls, theatres and restaurants last week and warned them that there were many complaints against their members over non-compliance with Covid protocol. He told them if things did not improve, the state would have no choice but to order strict restrictions that will hamper their business,” said an official.
All social, cultural, religious and political gatherings will continue to be suspended till March 31, which means Holi will have to be a low-key affair in the state. Weddings should not have more than 50 people and not more than 20 people can participate in a funeral. To crack down on those violating home quarantine and home isolation rules, the state has said if those with a home quarantine stamp are found to be moving around, they will be taken to Covid care centres. “There have been many instances where people with a home quarantine stamp are found to be out and about, and this has also led to spread of infection among others,” said an official.
Even private offices, which have been allowed to function at 50% capacity, will be shut down if they are found flouting Covid-appropriate norms. Religious places are encouraged to set up online booking system and decide the maximum number of people per hour they will allow inside.