COVID-19 negative report compulsory for entry into malls from 22 March

Mumbai: In view of the spike in the number of novel coronavirus cases, Mumbai has made RT-PCR Covid-19 test report mandatory for people entering the shopping malls. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday announced that it will make the Rapid Antigen Test facility to take samples for Covid-19 testing compulsory for all malls in the city.

The new rule will come into effect from 22 March. If visitors don’t have a negative Covid-19 test report, they will have to get a Rapid Antigen Test done at the entrance of the shopping mall. “A team will be designated at the entrance for this very purpose. The details are being worked out,” the Mumbai civic body said.

This comes a day after Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray had asked divisional commissioners to ensure that restrictions announced to curb the spread of Covid-19 are implemented strictly. CM Thackeray had met mall owners earlier and given a last warning on flouting of Covid-19 protocols. Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar has said that all city residents have to work together to curb the spread of the virus and avoid the imposition of a lockdown.

“I think imposing a night curfew is necessary right now. We are also considering shifting the crowded markets to new sites. All Mumbaikars need to work together to prevent the imposition of a lockdown,” said Pednekar.