Covid rise: Punjab makes masks mandatory in public places

Chandigarh: The Punjab government makes wearing a face mask in public places mandatory again after the state saw a rise in the number of Covid-19 infections, NDTV reported.

The Punjab government released a statement on Saturday, which read, "Wearing of appropriate masks shall be ensured in all educational institutions, government and private offices and indoor/outdoor gatherings, malls, public places...for the prevention of the further spread of the virus in the population and for the well-being of every individual."

"COVID-19 appropriate behaviour to be strictly followed, such as social distancing, respiratory etiquette and no spitting at public places. Anyone having symptoms of COVID-19 must get tested and follow COVID-19 protocol," the statement further read.

Punjab administration said that all hospitals, labs and collection centres were directed to upload details of tests, both positive and negative results. Those who have not yet inoculated the second jab or the precautionary one must make a move, it said.

Recently, the Delhi government also made mask-wearing mandatory in public places.