NEW DELHI: The central government on Wednesday called for all states and the Union Territories (UTs) to issue strict regulations to district and other local authorities concerned to control the crowded places and take necessary measures for the management of  potential Covid-1 possible third wave

The direction comes no the heels of "blatant violations" of Covid norms in several parts of the country, especially in public transport and hill stations at a time when third wave of the deadly virus has already started in various countries and there is possibility that it will hit India if people fail in following appropriate safety measures specified by the government. In an advisory to Chief Secretaries of all states, the Ministry of Home Affairs made it clear that the officers concerned should be made personally responsible for any laxity in strict enforcement of Covid appropriate behaviour.

The advisory sent by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla also advised that orders issued by the respective state governments or UT administrations, district authorities in this regard should be widely disseminated to the public and to the field functionaries for their proper implementation.

The advisory made it clear that such actions are necessary for containing the spread of Covid-19, and that "the defaulter shall also be liable for action under the relevant laws". The MHA advisory came after reports of massive crowds thronging the marketplaces violating norms of social distancing and consequently increased in 'R' factor (Reproduction number) in some of the states -- a matter of concern.

Covid Vax leads to reduced ICU stay and treatment cost among vaccinated patients

Johnson & Johnson Covid vaccine raises risk of rare neurological disorder: FDA

Experts suggests, Covid-affected people to keep kidney health in check