Fine of up to Rs 300,000 could be slapped
KATHMANDU, MAY 24
The Kathmandu District Administration Office (DAO) has appealed the public to follow all the prescribed COVID-19 protocols as Nepal bears the brunt of the second wave of the pandemic.
In a press release issued today, the DAO stated that amid the rising risk of further spread of the coronavirus contagion, it is imperative for one and all to follow the directives under the "The COVID-19 Risk Management Ordinance, 2078 BS" issued by the President last week.
Pursuant to the ordinance, any person who violates regulations by posing as a hindrance for authorities to implement the provisions, could face up to one year in prison or can be subjected to a penalty of up to Rs 500,000 lakh or both.
In the same manner, the offense of flouting the COVID-19 safety protocols as mentioned in the legal order is punishable by up to six months imprisonment or a fine of up to Rs 300,000 or both.
A fine of Rs 100 for every time a person is caught in public space without a mask, Rs 200 for movement during prohibited hours, Rs 2000 for two wheelers and Rs 5000 for four wheelers for plying without permit, for reasons other than emergency, have been prescribed by the DAO.
Earlier, President Bidya Devi Bhandari on the recommendation of the government had issued "The COVID-19 Risk Management Ordinance, 2078 BS" to mitigate the risk of COVID-19.
Prior to the issuance of the aforementioned ordinance, the Government of Nepal was referring to Infectious Disease Act 2020 (1984) and the Local Administration Act 2028 (1971) for regulative measures.
