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THE spread of the corona virus (COVID-19) has triggered local authorities in Mexico to restrict movement, trade and recreation, especially in tourist destinations.
The decision to impose restrictions was taken even as the government struggled to revive the hard hit economy. Even the Caribbean beach tourism authority, Tulum, threatened to impose fines or arrest people who violated the rules of using masks.
The move was the latest in a series of steps taken at the regional and national levels to stem the spread of the virus. Before the pandemic, the tourism sector contributed nearly nine percent to Mexico’s gross domestic product.
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who wants to immediately lift the country’s economy which is expected to shrink by around 10% this year, has pushed people out of the house.
Obrador has also refused to impose tighter restrictions nationally. However, some regional leaders are concerned that the impact that will emerge in their region is more severe if preventive measures are not implemented.
“We cannot play with citizens’ health,” Tulum Mayor Victor Mas Tah was quoted as saying by local media.
Regulations imposed in Tulum are part of steps to stem the corona virus in Quintana Roo State, whose governor, Carlos Joaquin, said that he tested positive for COVID-19 based on test results.
Mexico now has the fourth highest mortality rate globally due to the COVID-19. The country has reported 36,906 deaths and 317,635 infections. The daily infection count still reached a record high last week. Before the pandemic, the tourism sector contributed nearly nine percent to Mexico’s gross domestic product. [antaranews]
