Wondering why you are still seeing so many people walking about without masks despite the steep Rs 1,000 fine? Statistics show BMC might be to blame for this as it seems to be getting more lax with each unlock. At Kurla's BMC market right next to L ward office, people are defying COVID-19 rules en masse. During a visit by mid-day, there was no social distancing and most people were without masks.

After repeated requests from various traders and shopkeepers' associations, the BMC agreed to open its own and private markets across the city on June 24 under numerous rules and conditions. The shopkeepers and vendors have to arrange masks, hand sanitisers, a temperature screening set-up and appoint private security guards to restrict crowd. The notification allows only two people inside a shop at a time.