Rio: Disregarding Municipal Regulations, Cariocas Crowd Beaches

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – On the first Sunday following authorization to swim in the ocean, after relaxation of the restrictions designed to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, the beaches of Rio de Janeiro once again recorded cases of non-compliance with the city government’s guidelines. Rio de Janeiro residents entered Phase 5 of the City Hall’s Resumption Plan on Saturday.

In Flamengo, Ipanema, Leblon, and Copacabana, in the capital’s south zone, in addition to crowds, there were many people lying and sitting on chairs on the sand strip, in violation of the provisions that forbid the practice. The same occurred in Barra da Tijuca, in the west zone. But this was not the only violated measure. Many bathers were not wearing face masks.

Despite a lack of constant presence, on some of the beaches, the police made approaches to urge bathers not to remain on the sand and not take part in group games. However, once the police left, bathers would return to the sand strip. Collective sports with no competition, such as volleyball and footvolley, can be practiced, but only from Mondays to Fridays.

Street vendors, a feature of Rio’s beaches, were also allowed to return to activity in Phase 5, provided they do not sell alcohol or processed foodstuffs. The same applies to the fixed tents that are set up on the sand strip with permission to operate from 7 AM to 6 PM. The rental of chairs and sunshades is not allowed.

Other crowded spots were the beachside streets and avenues where lanes areas are closed to motor vehicles. On Delfim Moreira in Leblon and Vieira Souto in Ipanema, the flow was similar to the pre-Covid-19 pandemic period. Walking and jogging and the use of bicycles and skateboards were the favorites. Many were not wearing masks.

Still in Phase 5, the city hall extended by an hour the operation of snack bars, bars, restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and similar establishments. Nevertheless, the self-service system and live music remain suspended.

Shopping mall stores are back in operation from 10 AM to 10 PM, but food courts are restricted to half capacity. The maximum public capacity remains at two-thirds, including the parking lots, respecting the two-meter spacing between people. Street trade is allowed to open at 9 AM on Saturdays and Sundays.

Source: Agência Brasil