Back To Normal! BBMP Allows Commercial Establishments To Reopen With COVID Norms

Months after the city’s shops had shut down due to the pandemic-induced lockdown, BBMP has allowed all commercial establishments to operate with specific COVID protocols to be followed.

Just months after the city reeled back to normal from the first lockdown, the second wave of the pandemic struck, shutting down businesses across the city. Now, a few months after the second lockdown, the BBMP has taken the reducing number of cases into consideration and declared that commercial establishments will be allowed to reopen and operate. While this comes as great news for businesses, the civic body has listed out a bunch of rules and protocols that have to be strictly followed by the shops. 

As per the circular issued by BBMP, the staff of the shops, restaurants, offices and hotels need to ensure that they do not get infected with COVID-19 and end up passing it on to customers who visit these spots. As such, the need for vaccination of all employees and frequent COVID testing has been enforced by the officials. BBMP Chief Commissioner, Gaurav Gupta, said, “Employer shall ensure 100 per cent vaccination of their staff either at government, BBMP vaccination centre or at a private hospital at the employer’s cost."

At least one dose of the vaccination must be completed for all employees at commercial establishments by August 31. The proof of vaccination will have to be maintained at the workplace and health officials will be authorised to inspect these documents during work hours, with effect from September 1. Any violations of these norms will be punishable by law, as per reports. With the city slowly coming back to life, let’s continue being careful and practising COVID-appropriate behaviour. 

News Source: The Times of India