Saudi authorities ramp up health inspection tours

Saudi authorities ramp up health inspection tours

JEDDAH: Jeddah authorities shut down 70 commercial outlets for breaching coronavirus protocols. Municipalities have stepped up their efforts to ensure compliance with COVID-19 measures designed to protect public health. The municipality of Jeddah carried out 7,730 inspection tours of commercial centers and facilities in one day, identifying 148 violations for issues related to overcrowding and a failure to use the Tawakkalna app. Eastern Province authorities conducted 10,000 checks in one week across malls, commercial centers, and stores to monitor adherence to safety rules. They closed 55 outlets during the tours, with 536 violators issued with penalties for ignoring COVID-19 precautionary measures. The municipality said it had received 2,514 reports of violations. It urged all commercial facilities to respect and abide by regulations to ensure public safety and prevent the virus from spreading. Officials have urged the public to report any suspected health breaches by phoning the 940 call center number or using the Balady app.