Masks are not required, but they are recommended in Delhi, Maharashtra
With Covid cases steadily declining, Delhi and Maharashtra, two of the worst-affected states, decided to lift the mask mandate on Thursday. Both, however, recommended that masks be worn in crowded places.
According to sources, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) decided on Thursday at a meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to abolish the Rs 500 fine for not wearing face masks in public places as of April 1. Last month, the fine was reduced from Rs 2,000 to Rs 500. While the DDMA has yet to issue a detailed order, sources say it will most likely recommend that masks be worn in crowded areas.
The majority of the Covid-related restrictions in the capital were lifted last month and starting Friday, all schools will operate solely in offline mode. Hospitals will be directed to test and track people with flu-like symptoms, according to sources.
All restrictions in Maharashtra will be lifted on April 2nd, according to the government. “Gudi Padwa marks the start of a new year. Today is the first day of a new job… We’ve successfully fought the deadly coronavirus for the past two years, and it now appears to be fading. The restrictions imposed… under the Disaster Management Act as well as the Epidemic Diseases Act are being completely lifted from Gudi Padwa (April 2) to make a fresh start,” said Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray in a statement.
“However, this does not mean people should be complacent; they must be cautious,” said State Health Minister Rajesh Tope. Although wearing a mask is not required, it is recommended that people do so whenever possible to protect themselves and others.”
Many parts of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe, according to Tope, are already mask-free. “However, we’ve made it optional.” “The chief minister and all others made the decision in consultation with the task force and the health department,” he said. In this regard, the Maharashtra government has yet to issue official orders.
Picture Courtesy: Google/Images are subject to copyright
