Bhubaneswar: After announcing several restrictions to contain the spiralling COVID-19 cases, Chief Secretary Suresh Chandra Mahapatra on Thursday cautioned people against any leniency in wearing mask while in public places.
He said that the present strain of the virus is spreading very fast and therefore, it is important to wear the mask properly while interacting with others in public places. “Only wearing a mask (covering nose and mouth) can help to prevent the virus from spreading,” he said.
This assumes significance because about 30 to 40 per cent COVID positive cases in the state are young people in the age group of 30 to 40 years, he added.
The Chief Secretary requested people visiting market places or even malls to keep the mask on. Those visiting fast food corners and eateries, pubs or even restaurants will have to maintain social distance.
The shopkeepers and hotels, restaurants and all such facilities have been asked to follow the protocol and those not adhering to it will face serious action, including forfeiting their licence, he added.
