Going for a walk in the morning can cost you

Going for a walk in the morning can cost you

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Chennai:  26.06.2020

Walking within a 2km radius to buy essentials or medicines is OK, but beware if you plan a morning walk in the same area. Greater Chennai Corporation has fined hundreds of people between ₹100 and ₹300 for strolling well within the allowed area. Some were not wearing masks; others didn’t follow distancing norms.

A 62-year-old walker who didn’t want to be named told TOI he was fined on Wednesday. “I told the civic body officials I had strayed just 500 metres away. Pondy Bazaar pedestrian plaza was constructed for us. Yet, I didn’t want to argue. I will not go for walks anymore.”

A senior corporation official said many morning walkers were starting small groups that cannot be allowed. “We have been asked to enforce rules strictly and we cannot help but ask them not to come out.”

But, what does one do to stay fit? Sandhya V of Anna Nagar, a social activist, said walkers should be allowed as long as they maintain distancing norms and wear masks. “It won’t harm anyone. People who live alone will go crazy.”

Cycling enthusiast V Padmapriya said many were trying out alternatives as they were not allowed to cycle. “I am doing small exercises, climbing stairs to remain sane,” she said.

While some members of Chennai Runners-Pillar Pacers, a walking community, say they walk within their homes, fitness trainer Nithya Nandhini said walking wasn’t wrong if within the rules. “Not everyone can be confined inside the house. I can self motivate myself and stay fit but not everyone can do this…”

Psychologist Shalini Somesh said mental fitness is the key. “People need to create little joys and opt for yoga and meditation ... it will get even more difficult in the coming days. Better to find an alternative if the civic body is putting curbs.”