COVID tests to resume across Assam from today

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The resurgence of COVID-19 cases in other States across the country has woken up the Assam government, at last. From Monday, all PHCs (Public Health Centres) will resume COVID-19 tests which have been restricted to only medical colleges and district civil hospitals till now.

All DCs (Deputy Commissioners) of the State have also reissued an order for mask-wearing guidelines and asked the authorities concerned to be strict in this regard.

Even though the new COVID-19 cases in Assam is around 0.25 per cent on the average yet keeping an eye on the situation of the pandemic in States like Maharashtra, COVID tests have been made mandatory in important railway stations and bus stations, besides airports.

With the relaxation of COVID protocols on the eve of the Assembly election in the State, the common people and police personnel as well, are mostly seen without face masks. COVID protocols have gone for a toss with the beginning of poll rallies. Earlier, COVID testing was restricted to only the medical colleges and PHCs as if to allow the people to attend poll rallies in large numbers.

With none other than Prime Minister Narendra reiterating strict adherence to wearing of facemasks and other COVID protocols, the State government has woken up finally.

According to the reissued COVID guidelines, no person can attend meetings or other public gatherings without wearing masks. If this is violated, one will be fined at the rate of Rs 500 for first time and Rs 1,000 for the second time under Section 188 of the IPC (Indian Penal Code).

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