WHAT IS HEALTH MINISTRY CAUTIONS AGANIST "REVENGE TRAVEL"

The Health Ministry has expressed concern over Indians travelling to tourist spots in large numbers despite the possibility of a third wave of Covid infections. The Union Health Ministry on Tuesday expressed concern over reports of people flocking to hill stations and other tourist destinations in large numbers. Secretary (MoHFW) Lav Agarwal referred to the phenomenon as "revenge travel". 

Stressing on the fact that only Covid-appropriate behaviour can contain the virus, Lav Agarwal said "revenge travel" is dangerous, People need to understand that the fight against Covid-19 is still underway. He also mentioned that "We can nullify the ease of restrictions again if protocols are not complied with," hinting at another lockdown if Covid-appropriate behaviour is not followed.

Photos are coming in from places like Manali, Shimla and Mussoorie of massive crowds roaming around with no face masks. Agarwal told reporters that similar behaviour had been reported from Delhi's Sadar Bazar and Dadar market in Mumbai.

Reiterating the health ministry's stance, Secretary Lav Agarwal said we are exhausted but the virus is not. There has been a decline of 13 per cent in the weekly average of 3 lakh new Covid cases being reported from across the country, said Lav Agarwal. About 83 per cent of respondents are not fully complying with Covid guidelines and 63 per cent said they do not comply with social distancing, said Secretary Lav Agarwal.