Amidst rising cases of Covid, violation of lockdown norms is posing further threat. Despite orders several shops continued to operate after 2 pm making a mockery of the orders.

People are seen shopping after 2 pm in areas like Jugsalai, Sidhgora, Baridih, Agrico, Sakchi, Bistupur, Mango, Kadma, Telco, Burmamines, Jugsalai and Sonari. “ Despite high death rates, people are still taking the hazards of pandemic lightly. We want people to understand the importance of lockdown. With the beginning of the second phase of lockdown and in view of prohibitory order under Section 144 of the CrPC the focus is on that people remain indoors.

Meanwhile, traffic police jointly with city police could be seen vigilant at most of the commercial hubs seeking information from two-wheelers and four-wheelers about their reason for coming on the road.

An official informed that if anyone found roaming without a mask will be booked under section 269 (negligent act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life), 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) of IPC.

“We have decided to file FIR on people coming out without a proper mask. Even the Union Government has made masks a must for every citizen.

 On Monday we warned several persons who were found without masks. They were going to buy essential commodities but not wearing masks in the Sakchi area. We have warned them that the police will register FIRs against them for offence under section 188 (disobedience of order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code”, said the police official.

Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce and Industry and  Jamshedpur Chamber of Commerce have also demanded a complete lockdown in the city. “The situation is going out of control. Not only rising deaths but shortage of beds is also a matter of great concern. It is high time that the State Government take immediate steps to ensure complete lockdown.  In view of spreading cases of coronavirus and deaths the Government must impose curfew across the state,” said a senior functionary.

50 Covid deaths in 48 hours

Jamshedpur: Death figures took a new high with 50 Covid deaths reported in the last 48 hours in the district. With maximum deaths 38 being reported on Saturday while 12 deaths on Sunday. Till today 644 deaths took place. A total of 652 positive cases today while 780 patients recovered. There are 6830 active cases present in the district.

The district administration has asked all authorities to focus on adopting extra preparedness measures ahead of festive season and to ensure that the COVID protocol is in place in all shops and establishments and markets where people are likely to congregate. The death toll has crossed 600 with the first casualty being reported on July 4 last year.

The city witnessed its first COVID death when a 71-year-old man who was a resident of Sonari died at the Tata Main Hospital on July 4, 2020.