Amarinder seeks DCS’ views on opening gyms, coaching centres

CM SAYS HE WILL DECIDE ON THE ISSUE AFTER AN ASSESSMENT OF THE GROUND SITUATION

CHANDIGARH:CHIEF minister Capt Amarinder Singh on Thursday said the final decision on opening of gyms and coaching centres, and other relaxations in Unlock 3.0 will be taken after detailed deliberations on inputs received from the deputy commissioners (DCS).

During a review meeting (through video-conferencing) with the DCS and health officials on Covid-19 containment and management arrangements, the CM said while the central government has announced certain relaxations, including permission for gyms and coaching centres, as per the Unlock 3.0 guidelines, he will decide on the same after an assessment of the ground situation. He asked the DCS to think through and submit their views to chief secretary Vini Mahajan.

Taking serious note of reports of violation of social distancing and other Covid-19 protocols by some shopkeepers, Amarinder directed the DCS to order shutdown of shops for three days in the case of first offence and more number of days for subsequent violations. He further asked the

DCS to strictly enforce all safety protocols and norms, including wearing of masks and social distancing, to check the spread of the pandemic.

Dr KK Talwar, who heads the expert committee advising the state government on health and medical education, said scientific data shows that wearing of masks is as effective as lockdown, as it not only prevents spread of infection but also lowers mortality. DGP Dinkar Gupta, who was also present, said from March 23 to July 29, a total of 14,384 FIRS have been registered and 19,850 persons arrested for various violations. Another 5.50 lakh persons have been fined for violation of the Covid-19 guidelines.