Tips

Is It Against Directive 16 to Go to the Bus Station to Receive Food Sent by Family from the Countryside?

As Ho Chi Minh City embarked on the implementation of Directive 16, a question arose among many: Would going to the bus station to receive food packages sent by family members from their hometowns violate the directive? Let's delve into this inquiry and explore the intricacies of this scenario.

Administrator

6 September, 2024

During social distancing, many people choose to order vegetables from their hometown instead of going to the supermarket. As the produce from the countryside is both cheaper and fresher, it can be stored for a longer duration. But does going to the bus station to collect these food parcels violate Directive 16? Read on to find out more!

1Does Going to the Bus Station to Collect Food Parcels from the Countryside Violate Directive 16?

During the social distancing period as per Directive 16 of Ho Chi Minh City, residents are requested to stay at home, only going out when absolutely necessary, such as for buying essentials, emergencies, or medical reasons.

According to Lawyer Dao Thi Bich Lien (Ho Chi Minh City Bar Association), Directive 16 of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee does not specifically prohibit residents from going to the bus station to collect food parcels sent by their families in emergency or essential cases. It only states “other urgent cases, necessary…” Many people believe that this is also a necessary case.

However, the authorities may argue that this does not fall under the category of purchasing essentials, and therefore, your trip to the bus station to collect parcels could be considered a violation of Directive 16.

Hence, depending on the interpretation of the authorities in each locality, they may consider your action as a violation of Directive 16 and impose penalties accordingly. To avoid any unnecessary fines, you can hire a shipper through delivery applications to transport the food from the bus station to your home.

Avoid any unnecessary fines by hiring a shipper to deliver the food from the bus station to your home.

2Notes on Going Out in Case of Absolute Necessity

To minimize the risk of spreading the disease when going out, it is essential to keep the following two points in mind:

Carry relevant identification documents such as a driver’s license or other proof of residence when stepping out.
Strictly adhere to the 5K message: Wear a face mask, wash your hands regularly, avoid gathering in groups of more than 2 people in public places, and maintain a minimum distance of 2 meters from others.

It is important to note that if you deliberately go out without a valid reason or essential need, you may be considered in violation of the law and could face administrative fines ranging from 5 to 10 million VND.

Going out without a valid reason can result in administrative fines ranging from 5 to 10 million VND.

To effectively support the government in disease prevention and control and to resume normal life, everyone needs to follow the government’s directives, minimize going out during social distancing, avoid fines, and protect their health. We wish you all good health.

Source: Zing News

Frequently asked questions

No, it is not against Directive 16 to receive essential goods, such as food, sent by your family. However, you should minimize your time outside and ensure that you practice social distancing and wear a mask when picking up the package.

According to the government, essential reasons for leaving home during Directive 16 include buying food, medicine, or other essential goods; going to work at an essential business; seeking medical care; or exercising outdoors while practicing social distancing.

No, social visits are not considered an essential activity during Directive 16. You should avoid non-essential travel and gatherings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Individuals who violate Directive 16 may face fines ranging from VND 100,000 to VND 300,000, or even criminal charges if their actions are deemed to be particularly serious.

You can stay informed by following official government websites and reputable news sources. Make sure to verify any information you receive through social media or messaging apps, as misinformation can spread quickly during times of crisis.