VADODARA: The drive to vaccinate vegetable vendors, auto-drivers and labourers by the police department has got an overwhelming response in the city.
In the last five days, over 10,000 persons have been vaccinated in the joint drive started by the cops in collaboration with the civic body.
The cops will extend vaccination drive to industrial labourers within the next few days.
“The drive was aimed to help those who come in contact with many people daily.
Over 10,000 have got their first dose in last five days,” said Shamsher Singh, city police commissioner.
The police said that its focus is on vegetable vendors and auto drivers who come in contact with many people daily.
From Wednesday, the police department also started drive to vaccinate industrial labourers.
“We have started vaccinating labourers and other employees working in Makarpura GIDC with the help of Vadodara Chambers of Commerce and Industry,” Singh told TOI.
The police said most of the citizens from this segment don’t have access to smartphones or they don’t know how to register online.
The police help them in on-the-spot registration and vaccination.
A committee of roadside vendors has been formed to keep an eye on those who flout the Covid protocols.
If any vendor is found not wearing a face mask, his stall is closed for a day.
“Apart from helping in vaccination, we are also spreading awareness in shopping complexes and urging the shop owners to follow all the Covid protocols,” Singh added.