Even though Covid-19 cases continued to soar in the capital city, the guidelines to prevent the virus spread like masking and physical distancing are blatantly flouted in the overcrowded markets and Haats.
In a bid to stringently enforce the norms, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday decided that commercial establishments and other shops would be sealed if social distancing norms are flouted. The use of masks would also be mandatory and violations would attract closure of the concerned institution. Covid-appropriate behaviour would be strictly enforced at Dumduma, Patia, Damana, Unit-4, Unit-1, Unit-2 and other markets across the city..
All the Zonal Deputy Commissioners have been asked to ensure strict compliance of the Covid norms and other guidelines issued by the State Government.
The BMC Zonal Deputy Commissioners would identify suitable places in consultation with the respective market associations and local ACP or IIC for conducting the markets, Haats at decentralised places for convenience of the people as well as for their safety.