BMC officials fine mask-less people near Borivli railway station on Sunday. Pic/Satej Shinde
After receiving major flack for its massive action against those not wearing masks, the BMC has now come up with the idea of handing out free masks. Municipal Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal had directed maximum action against citizens found not wearing masks. The corporation initiated significant action in September after reducing the fine amount from Rs 1,000 to Rs 200. Now, it has decided to provide free masks to violators in addition to the fines.
ADVERTISEMENT
Also Read: Mandatory COVID-19 testing: Only 20 out of 50,000 railway passengers test positive in 4 days
The corporation has collected Rs 10.07 crore in fines imposed on 4.85 lakh citizens over the past few months. "The best way to prevent COVID-19 is for citizens to wear masks. Sometimes, after the fine, the citizens go on without masks. So, in order to fulfil the basic objective of using a mask, it will be provided free of cost," said an official. That a free mask has been provided will also be mentioned in the relevant penalty receipt.
BMC officials fine mask-less citizens during a drive on Sunday. Pic/Satej Shinde
The corporation has formed teams which include supervisors, junior supervisors, mukadams, nuisance detectives as well as other officers. They have been given the power to take action against unmasked citizens and impose fines. Clean-up marshals have also been appointed.
Rs 200
Current fine amount for not wearing a mask
Keep scrolling to read more news
Catch up on all the latest Mumbai news, crime news, current affairs, and a complete guide from food to things to do and events across Mumbai. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates.
Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
