Over 60 days after the lockdown, some apartment complexes in the neighbourhood have introduced few relaxations. While some have started allowing domestic helpers others say they are allowing water filter repair technicians after two months now.
At Ashiana Apartments in Venus Colony, Alwarpet, the association here has allowed domestic helpers. Like most gated communities, this apartment too did not allow domestic helpers when lockdown was announced.
Says Bhuvana Panchanath, a resident here, “A few days ago, our apartment’s management committee sent out a notice asking if we (residents) required maids or drivers. At that time, some 30% of the residents, especially seniors said they wanted their maid’s service. Hence, maids are now allowed to help seniors.”
However, to prevent the virus spread, she says, they make sure the maids are not from containment zones. “We have also put in place infrared scanners at the entrance to check the temperature of the maids. They are also asked to wear masks and keep distance.”
“With many residents now going out to work, the ironwallah has been allowed to resume work near our complex. But residents have to pick up/drop their clothes,” she adds.
Elsewhere at Dwaraka Apartments at Raja Street, air conditioner and RO water filter repair technicians are being allowed now.
Says Ganga Sridhar, secretary of this apartment complex body, “Since lockdown, we did not allow any service persons inside. However, everybody wants technicians for AC repair/maintenance. Also, during the lockdown, most of our RO water filters faltered. So, we are now allowing AC/ RO repair technicians after taking strict precautions.”
What are these precautions?
“Before entering the house, the technicians have to sanitise their hands and then wear a mask. They have to strictly maintain social distance while at work. Also, we make payment only via Google Pay to ensure contactless money transaction.”
Here, domestic helpers are allowed only in case of emergencies.
Resident Nagalatha of Ram Nivas apartment complex located off Dr Ranga Road says the community now allows electricians/plumbers whenever the need arises. “But we ensure they follow all precautions to prevent the virus spread,” she says.
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