The Punjab Government on Friday made it mandatory for people to wear masks in public places to check the spread of the novel coronavirus. A notification to this effect was issued by the Health Department here earlier today. Disclosing this, Director Health Dr. Avneet Kaur stated that anybody coming out of their homes for official or other essential work would have to wear a cloth or triple layer mask, violation of which would be strictly punishable under the law. The notification has been issued by Director Health in exercise of powers contained in Rule 12 of regulation issued through notification dated March 5, 2020 under the Epidemic Disease Act 1897. Further, those working in hospitals, other offices, factories or at any other place of work besides those travelling on a vehicle would also be required to be wear mask. This also includes masks made from cotton cloth, and if such a mask is not available kerchief or a scarf or stole can be used to cover face, she added. Urging the citizens to keep following all norms of social distancing and health protocols, Avneet Kaur assured them state was fully equipped to take on this challenge posed by deadly virus. This is a fight for all of us to win and one way to contribute in this battle is to just stay indoors and break the transmission chain.