In a bid to contain further spread of COVID-19 cases in the State Capital, Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Panchayat (AKMWP) has decided to make wearing of face masks at public places compulsory from Monday and strictly enforce it.
Directing everyone moving in and around the Kohima municipality areas to wear face masks, the association warned that names of those violating its directive would be collected and compelled to buy masks on the spot for Rs 30 from COVID ward committee members on duty.
AKMWP president Neibulie Kiewhuo said at least 10 volunteers, including senior leaders of the wards, would enforce the rule in their respective wards as requested by Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) to combat the pandemic in Kohima.
It has been learnt that KMC administrator Kovi Meyase will officially kick off the campaign at Old MLA junction here at 7 a.m. Identity cards for COVID-19 ward committee members will also be issued by the administrator on the occasion.
It may be mentioned that the AKMWP president had written to all wards chairmen under Kohima Municipality to enforce the directive in the interest and safety of the public.
It may also be recalled that the State government on April 16, 2020 made it mandatory for all to wear face masks in all public spaces and workplaces, to prevent the spread of COVID-19.