Passengers traveling on Mumbai suburban train network without masks will now have to pay fines as part of an exercise to stop the spread of Covid-19.
A fine of Rs. 200 and will be charged based on Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) notification of fines for spitting and not wearing masks. A date to enforce the fines has not yet been decided, but they are likely to be enforced starting next week.
On Wednesday, the Maharashtra government authorized the Government Railway Police (GRP) to collect fines from passengers traveling without masks on board local trains and at train stations.
A letter written by Abhay Yawalkar, director of disaster management to the GRP commissioner, states that to prevent a resurgence in the number of coronavirus cases, it is imperative that all Covid-related protocols are followed by travelers.
“One of the main protocols is to wear a face mask all the time. The state empowers the Government Railroad Police to impose fines on travelers traveling without masks on local trains or within station facilities. The fine will be in line with the one circulated on September 9, 2020 issued by the Greater Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MCGM) or any other circular issued by MCGM in this regard. “The letter says.
Meanwhile, the railways have decided to provide free masks to passengers to raise awareness about the spread of the coronavirus among railway passengers. Awareness campaigns will also be organized on the precautions and preventions to be carried out while traveling.
“Passengers traveling without masks on board the trains will receive masks and be informed about the spread of the virus.” said a senior official from the Central Railroad.
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