In its drive against people for endangering their lives by not wearing the mask, the police collected a fine worth Rs 2 lakh from the violators in the past two days.

The traffic police carried out an intense checking drive in the localities which include Jugsalai, Golmuri, Mango, Sakchi and Bistupur since 10 am today. During this period, the district administration and police also assisted in action against the citizens coming to public places without wearing masks. Citizens who were found in public places spitting having a mask but not wearing were advised not to repeat such things and in some areas they were also given masks.

“Though the administration has been conducting awareness on the dangers of COVID-19 and precautions to be taken to prevent contracting and spreading of the deadly virus, the public have taken it lightly and have displayed their negligence,” said the official.

He further said that wearing a face mask, washing hands frequently and maintaining social distance are the only ways to avoid contracting the virus and also spreading it to others till COVID-19 vaccine is available. But people by not following these norms are displaying their negligent attitude, the official regretted. Moreover, persons over 65 years of age, persons with other diseases, pregnant women and children below ten years of age are advised to stay home except for essential services and health purposes.

SDO Nitish Kumar said that the COVID-19 infection can only be curbed when people follow social distancing norms in the true sense, and use masks as a habit. The police have also intensified checking at border areas and on other arterial roads with emphasis on those without the protective face gear.