Noida: Over 5,500 fined for not wearing face masks
Over 5,500 people were fined for not wearing face masks in public places in Noida and Greater Noida on Friday, even as Gautam Buddh Nagar Police Commissioner Alok Singh hit the ground to ensure compliance with COVID-19 protocols, officials said. As many as 5,525 people were penalized till 10 pm and Rs. 6.21 lakh collected from them in fines, a police spokesperson said.
Owners of 1,719 vehicles were issued challans
"Of these people, 18 were issued penalties of Rs. 1,000 as per new rules," the official said. Owners of 1,719 vehicles were issued challans across Gautam Buddh Nagar district for flouting traffic rules and COVID-19 protocols, the policeman said, adding that nine vehicles were impounded.
Action taken against 103 people under Section 188
"Action was taken under Section 188 (disobeying government order) against 103 people and FIRs were lodged in 27 such cases," the official said. Besides Commissioner Singh, Additional CP (Law and Order) Love Kumar, DCP, Noida, Rajesh S and Additional DCP, Noida, Ranvijay Singh went around to review the enforcement of COVID-19 protocols. The top cop patrolled the busy Sector 18 market in the evening.
Collective efforts are being made to raise awareness
"There has been a collective effort to raise awareness among the public regarding COVID-19. People are being told to cover their face with a mask, observe social distancing and hygiene," he said.
Night curfew timings revised in several districts of UP
"Most of the people in public places are now wearing face masks and those without are being penalized. Repeat offenders will face bigger penalties," Singh added. The UP government has revised the night curfew timings in 10 UP districts including Noida. Night restrictions will now come into effect from 8 pm instead of 9 pm. The restrictions will remain in place till 7 am.
Government has announced a Sunday lockdown in the state
The government of Uttar Pradesh has imposed a lockdown on Sunday across the state. Only sanitation and emergency services will be operational during the period, the government has said. Meanwhile, those caught without a face mask will be fined Rs. 1,000 the first time and up to Rs. 10,000 if they repeat the violation.
