Delhi govt mulls over shutting down markets emerging as COVID-19 hotspots
CM Arvind Kejriwal said that he will send a proposal to Centre to give power to the Delhi govt to impose lockdown in markets which may emerge as coronavirus hotspots
FollowNew Delhi: Amid the spike in Covid-19 cases in the national capital, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal is mulling to shut down markets if there is a massive violation of Covid-19 safety norms. The Aam Aadmi Party government has sent a proposal in this regard to the Centre.
"We are seeking permission from the central government to close markets if crowds don't decrease, as the shopping areas have potential of becoming Covid-19 hotspots," the chief minister said on Tuesday.
The state is also looking at reducing the number of people allowed for public gatherings back to 50. The Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government has sent a proposal to Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to roll back its decision to allow the gathering of 200 people in marriage ceremonies and restricted the number to 50 now.
"In keeping with the Central government guidelines, Delhi had allowed up to 200 people at weddings. But now we have decided to go back to the earlier limit of 50 people. I have sent a proposal to the Lieutenant Governor for approval. I hope he gives permission soon," Arvind Kejriwal said observing that many weren't wearing masks on Diwali or distancing while shopping.
Also read:Â No reimposition of lockdown in Delhi, says Satyendra Jain despite surge in COVID-19 cases
"People think it (COVID-19) will not happen to them. I request you with folded hands that the Coronavirus disease can happen to anyone, and can turn fatal once it infects you. Please follow social distancing," he said.
"I appeal to Delhiites with folded hands to wear masks and follow social distancing norms," CM Kejriwal urged.
With Delhi witnessing a fresh spike in the number of COVID-19 cases, the Centre on Sunday announced a slew of steps, including making available 300 additional ICU beds, doubling the number of daily PCR tests and a house-to-house survey in the national capital.
Delhi on Monday recorded 3,797 fresh coronavirus cases, taking the infection tally in the national capital to over 4.89 lakh, even as 99 new fatalities pushed the toll to 7,713, authorities said.
The highest single-day spike of 8,593 cases till date here was recorded on November 11 when 85 fatalities were recorded. Ninety-nine fatalities were recorded, pushing the toll in the national capital to 7,713.
