Wearing of mask compulsory in public spaces
The new lockdown regulations were also signed by co-operative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma
President Cyril Ramaphosa said that from now onwards it was compulsory to wear a face mask in public spaces.
This was during his address to the nation on Sunday evening about the coronavirus pandemic.
Public transport drivers and operators allowing commuters into their vehicles without a face mask can be prosecuted and jailed for up to six months, be fined, or both.
The new lockdown regulations were also signed by co-operative governance and traditional affairs (Cogta) minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.
“A driver, owner or operator of public transport may not allow any member of the public not wearing a cloth face mask, homemade item, or another appropriate item that covers the nose and mouth, to board or be conveyed in public transport owned or operated by him or her,” according to the regulations.
Local taxis are now allowed to carry passengers to their full capacity.
Local Taxi Association chairman Mr Solly Vilane said they tried their best to follow the regulations for the safety of their passengers and themselves.
“We sanitise all our vehicle every early morning in the ranks. Passengers are also not allowed into our vehicles without their masks. The 100% carrying capacity will make a difference even though a lot of people are out of work because of the Covid-19. We always make sure that we tell our passengers about the importance of keeping safe and healthy and to follow the regulations,” said Vilane.
The same rules around the wearing of cloth face masks apply to building owners, managers, employers and school principals.
