A large number of people crowded the city markets and business establishment after lockdown was relaxed across the district, violating social distancing norms and Covid-19 protocol on Thursday.
Raipur district collector Dr S Bharatidasan after a review on April 20 had issued timings for different business establishments and shops to be opened during the partial relaxation of the lockdown to facilitate the people.
The district administration on Thursday found that shops and business establishments were not implementing the Covid-19 guidelines while opening their establishments.
In a directive issued to commercial establishments and shops which have been given relaxation during the total lockdown, the district collector instructed them to ensure social distancing is maintained among customers.
Shops have to draw a circle in front of the shops to keep a distance among the customers who have to mandatorily wear masks, the directive said.
It further said that waiting customers should be provided chairs in a shaded place to sit, water to drink and also be provided sanitizer or hand washing facility in front of the shops and business establishments.
Shopkeepers have to ensure that customers do not crowd in front of their shops.
In case, the protocol is not followed, the authorities will withdraw the permission to keep open their shops until the total lockdown is in place.
In addition, legal action will be taken against violators under the Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, the directive said.