COVID-19: No fine for not wearing masks in Delhi

The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Thursday decided to do away with fine for not wearing mask at public places in the national capital, sources said.
 
Currently, there is a fine of Rs 500 for not wearing mask at public places. The decision to withdraw the fine was taken during DDMA's meeting on Thursday, sources said.
 
However, the Authority is likely to issue an advisory asking people to wear masks at crowded places.
 
"Withdrawal of fine doesn't mean people should stop using the masks, COVID-appropriate behaviour should be followed," the DDMA sources said.
 
The decision comes at a time when COVID-19 cases are on a decline across the country, including in Delhi.
 
Last month, the DDMA had said that no fine will be imposed on people travelling together in private vehicles in Delhi without masks.

After the DDMA meeting, Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal took to Twitter and said it was decided that the focus would be on hospital-based sentinel surveillance and enhancing vaccination coverage of the targeted population.

"While appreciating the efforts made by all stakeholders in management of COVID-19, emphasised upon the need to follow the 5 fold strategy of Test, Track, Treat, Vaccinate and adherence to COVID Appropriate Behaviour as advised by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, GOI.

"To effectively meet any scenario in future that may arise, advised all agencies to remain vigilant without lowering the guard," he said in a series of tweets.

Delhi reported 113 fresh Covid cases and no death due to the viral disease on Thursday, while the positivity rate stood at 0.49 per cent, according to data shared by the city health department.

(With inputs from Amit Bharadwaj and PTI)