BMC to conduct random tests at public places

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to randomly test people for corona virus (Covid-19) in public places and other areas without the consent people.  In a circular issued on Friday, the Mumbai Governing Council said that Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) would be conducted at malls, railway stations, state transport bus depots, tourist spots and markets. 

Rats can be carried out without the consent of the citizens participating in these crowded places.  If a citizen refuses to be tested, it is an offense under the Infectious Diseases Act of 1897,”it said in a circular. The move comes against the backdrop of rising Covid cases in Mumbai.  In the Maharashtra capital,2,982 cases were registered on Saturday.  The total number rose to 358,896.  In the last 24 hours, 27,126 Covid cases were registered in Maharashtra.

According to the circular, while visitors to malls will have to pay for the tests, BMC will conduct test-based tests at other locations. Medical professionals welcomed the move from BMC official side, saying more testing was needed over time.  “If tests are performed and they turn out to be positive, this will help us to contact tracing as well as reduce the spread of the virus.  This will discourage people from going to crowded places and help reduce congestion,”said Dr. Gutt, director of the Gut Clinic in Parel.  Ameet Mandot said.