The Tripura government has issued fresh guidelines in view of the recent spike in Covid-19 cases.

The government has issued two separate notifications regarding the new guidelines and preventive measures.

The state government will also enforce various preventive measures to contain the spread of the virus in government offices and public sector undertakings.

The chief secretary directed the divisional and sub-divisional magistrates to deploy people to sensitize the public on wearing masks, maintaining social distance and other Covid-19 norms through loudspeakers.

The state health department in collaboration with the police will conduct enforcement drives and fine those who violate the guidelines.

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The Agartala Municipal Corporation and other urban civic bodies have been asked to fumigate all the crowded places including offices, school, colleges etc. on a regular basis.

As per the notification, no official meeting will be held with more than 20 participants. There should be at least a one-metre gap between seats and all participants must wear face masks

Mass government programmes are to be avoided in Pragna Bhawan, Town Hall, Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhawan or any other public halls.

In order to regulate the number of visitors to government and residential offices, the visitors will be allowed to enter them only with prior appointment.

Moreover, anyone coming in close contact with a positive person has to get himself tested.

The biometric attendance may be discontinued until further orders.

The state government has asked to avoid sporting events, competition etc. where there can be gathering.

In addition, thermal screening would be organised at all entry points to offices wherever feasible to detect any symptomatic staff.

As per the notification, Mask Enforcement Day would be observed on every Saturday and adequate number of enforcement teams would be formed to visit crowded places like markets, shopping malls etc. and make the people aware and impose penalties wherever necessary as per the provisions of The Tripura Epidemic Disease COVID-19 Regulations, 2020.

Closure of all gyms, recreation centres and crèches located in the government buildings has been suggested.

Besides, all employees who are at higher risk like older employees, pregnant employees and employees who have underlying medical conditions, have been asked to take extra precautions.

The order has come into force with immediate effect.