Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 1: Through a video conference held on Monday evening with municipal authorities and ward officials, chief minister Uddhav Thackeray strongly warned that the government would take stern measures against people who throng the streets amid lockdown. He said he would even consider shutting down shops selling essential items if people defy rules.

"We have allowed shops selling essential commodities to operate 24 hours to avoid inconvenience to the people. But, if the people are roaming on the streets, taking advantage of it, then the government may take a harsh decision of closing them," Thackeray said.

On overcrowding at market places, Thackeray advised the civic officials to shift markets to open grounds if the need arises. According to the officials, the government, to prevent overcrowding at market places may either opt for closure of shops selling essential commodities or allow them to function for a shorter duration. “Many people are still roaming on the city streets on the pretext of buying groceries or other materials. So, the government may decide to close down shops for a few days to prevent the spread of coronavirus," he added.

In the meantime, the chief minister instructed BMC to form flying squads in all the 227 municipal wards in Mumbai, each squad consisting of municipal officers and employees, police and revenue department officials and medical assistants. They will visit every house from March 31 to search for coronavirus patients and their contacts. The officials will also check for signs of fever, cold, cough, pneumonia resembling ailments and proceed with treatment.