Manali administration to fine INR 5000 or 8-day jail for not wearing masks; Mussoorie also takes note

A COVID-19 awareness campaign has now been initiated in Manali, after it witnessed a huge influx of tourists, following COVID-related relaxation in the region.

Referring to this Kullu SP Gurudev Sharma stated that they have initiated this drive to make the tourists aware. Those not wearing masks can be punished with INR 5000 in fine or 8 days in jail, he added. He also informed that police have recorded more than 300 challans in the past 7 to 8 days and have recovered INR 3 lakh.
Pictures of an overcrowded Manali have been doing rounds in the social media for some time, which raised fears about the impending third wave of COVID-19. Recently, the Centre also raised an alarm against revenge travel that is fast becoming a norm.
Earlier this week, the Union Health Ministry, warned that it will reimpose restrictions again if people keep breaking COVID protocols. Referring to the influx of tourists in the hill stations, the Health Ministry reiterated that gross violations of COVID appropriate behaviour can nullify the gains that have been achieved so far.
Likewise, the Kempty Falls in Mussoorie witnessed a similar incident, when hundreds of tourists thronged the popular tourist spot, and didn't care about COVID protocols. After the video of this incident went viral on social media, the administration issued new directives.

As per the latest order, not more than 50 tourists will be allowed to gather at the spot, nor will they be allowed to stay there beyond half an hour. Further, a check-post will also be set up in the area to monitor tourist activity.