No fines for not wearing mask while driving alone

The Union health ministry has confirmed that it is not mandatory for a person driving a car and travelling alone to wear a mask.

The move comes in the wake of policemen stopping and prosecuting such drivers.

Health secretary Rajesh Bhushan stated, "The guidelines issued by the health ministry do not contain any directive that a person driving a car alone is required to wear a mask. If you are exercising in a group, you need a mask. But there is no directive to wear one if you are cycling alone."

Bhushan informed that people exercising in a group should wear masks and maintain social distancing, the same does not apply to those travelling inside vehicles alone.

He also added "People are getting into more physical activities and jogging and exercising in groups of twos and threes. In such cases, masks are compulsory since it is important that they do not infect each other."

Several people have complained of late about being challaned for not wearing a mask while being inside in their cars as the Covid-19 cases soared in the country. 

Responding to a query if it is necessary to wear a mask while driving a car or cycling alone, Bhushan confirmed "There are no guidelines from the Health Ministry on wearing a mask if a person is driving a car or riding a cycle alone."

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