Pune: Last month, Pune administration giving relaxations on the use of masks stated that it is no longer compulsory to wear masks while travelling with family in a four-wheeler. The relaxation was only given to those who are commuting in their private vehicle with their family members. However, it is seen that people in the city are flouting the COVID-19 rules as they are venturing without masks.

With Pune witnessing a gradual increase in the spread of infection, the use of face mask is still mandatory. Now, Pune Police has intensified their action against those who are travelling without masks and flouting COVID-19 restrictions. Pune Police Commissioner Amitabh Gupta said, “With COVID-19 cases on the rise in the city, all police officers in the city are ordered to take strict action against those travelling without masks. It is compulsory to mask whenever travelling and follow all COVID-19 protocols.”

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Meanwhile, Pune (Pune Municipal Corporation) on Wednesday reported 428 new COVID-19 cases taking the total mark of COVID-19 to 1,95,924 in the city. On the positive side, 262 people were discharged from the various hospitals on Wednesday.

On the other side, Pimpri-Chinchwad’s newly appointed Municipal Commissioner, Rajesh Patil on Wednesday issued an order urging people to follow guidelines of COVID-19 to restrict the further spread. The PCMC in its order has asked people to wear a mask while travelling in any public place, government and private offices in the city.

Also, it is mandatory to use at cultural, social, sports gatherings and also during wedding and other functions. A fine of Rs 500 will be imposed on those travelling without masks and Rs 1,000 will be levied for those spitting in public places.