MEC takes to streets to monitor distancing
The MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (Ledet) Thabo Mokone dedicated Monday, 30 March to tackle congestion at malls and supermarkets to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
POLOKWANE – This after he received information regarding overcrowding in queues across the province, following the announcement of a 21-day lockdown.
According to Mokone, his visit was to ensure that the rendering of essential services does not infringe on the set guidelines for crowds.
“We want to ensure that people on the premises do not exceed 100 and no queues of more than 50 should be permitted outside these establishments.”
Mokona has urged the public to procure essential services from spazas, supermarkets or shopping centres within their neighbourhood.
“The department discourages unnecessary long-distance travelling by the public under the pretence of grocery shopping. We want to limit the number of people in one place at a time.”
During his visit to SuperSave at the Indian Centre, Mokona spoke to Rafik Seedat, the store manager who mentioned that they had been following all regulations since South Africa’s first case was declared.
“We always sanitise all customers that come into the store and we have procured face masks to hand out to customers as well. We also observe social distancing by making sure our customers adhere to the set guidelines. It is a bit difficult because most of our customers are not properly informed about Covid-19.”
The MEC was accompanied by Dion Palser, Director for Business Regulations in the department.
“My job is to ensure that business comply with regulations beyond Covid-19. In this case we are mostly looking for compliance for measures put in place to prevent the spread of the virus.”
The MEC also visited Limpopo Mall, liquor outlets in Seshego, gambling facilities, Lebowakgomo, Zebediela and Paledi Mall in Mankweng.
