Many residents living in apartment complexes in Hanoi have still showed negligence in COVID-19 prevention and control by ignoring a prevailing travel restriction to go for a walk and exercise in public places.

The People’s Committee of Hanoi issued a ban on exercise, sports activities, and mass gatherings in public areas, gardens, and parks on May 5.

Later, chairman Chu Xuan Dung particularly ordered the management boards at apartment buildings to beef up control to ensure that their residents comply with the public gathering ban, following a number of coronavirus infections recorded at the condo buildings of the Times City urban area in Hoang Mai District.

Local authorities have urged people not to go out unnecessarily to help prevent the transmission of the coronavirus.

Despite these requirements, many apartment residents in the capital have failed to resist the temptation of outdoor activities.

At many apartment buildings in Nam Tu Liem District, the elderly and children enjoyed their Sunday afternoon at such public spaces as the front side of shopping malls and the sidewalks, many of them not wearing a face mask.

“I’m well aware of that restriction, but I can’t stand staying at home for too long,” said Lan Anh, a 28-year-old resident in Tay Mo Ward.

“I have been working from home for two weeks and almost staying inside my apartment all day long, day after day.

“I just want to take some time in the afternoon to bring my children down here for some fresh air.

“We’re still wearing face masks.”

Hoai, a resident at the My Dinh 1 urban area, seconded Anh’s opinion.

“I think it’s acceptable to look for some fresh air as long as people wear face masks and do not assemble,” Hoai said.

“Those who do not wear face masks, gather to kick a shuttlecock, fly kites, or play football should be fined.”

Some other residents showed discomfort when being interviewed for their presence at public places on Sunday afternoon.

“It’s not that I’m gathering, but going for a walk with my pet after both of us stayed inside my flat for a whole week,” said 34-year-old Bao, living at the same urban area as Hoai.

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