On the lines of Delhi, Chandigarh administration is also preparing to charge a fine of ₹2,000 for those caught without a mask. This was discussed in the meeting of administration officials and the decision will be taken next week. Currently, the rate of fine for not wearing a mask is ₹500.
The reason for increasing the fine is the negligent behaviour of most people who are seen without masks in the city’s major markets and public places.
Even on Friday, around 2,000 people turned up at the lake in Sector 42 to pay obeisance to the setting sun on the third day of Chhath Puja. Most of them were seen without face masks and maintaining no social distance, even as the number of Covid-19 cases are rising in the city.
In October, Chandigarh was witnessing around 40-50 cases on a daily basis. Now, this number has risen to 150-160. Many areas have also been declared as containment zones. On Thursday, 14 places were made as containment zones. The Administration has formed teams of health department, police and sub-divisional magistrate who roam in different areas to keep a check on the defaulters. Fines are charged on the spot and if one does not have money, then a challan is filed after taking his/her identity card. There is also a provision to file a case under Section 188 if one does not pay the challan on time.
