Hanoi has proposed an additional 70% increase in the stipend for the capital’s COVID-19 prevention and control forces.

VTV reported that on May 17 the Hanoi People’s Committee sent an official dispatch to the Prime Minister requesting more support for its pandemic prevention forces. Notably, the committee proposed a 70% increase in financial assistance. The proposal is now awaiting the PM’s opinion.

At the moment, the daily allowances for COVID-19 workers range from VND80,000 to 300,000 per person per day, depending on the duty of the person.

For instance, medical personnel in charge of testing procedures and patient care are receiving VND300,000 daily; quarantine staff, emergency teams, and logistics personnel are given VND150,000; and propaganda volunteers receive VND80,000.

If the proposal is approved, all of those who are receiving the stipend in Hanoi will enjoy the increase. Funds will come directly from the city’s budget. Hanoi suggested that the new allowance be retroactively applied from May 1, when the fourth COVID-19 wave started.

Starting from 12pm today, May 25, Hanoi authorities have increased the city's pandemic restrictions due to the emergence of recent clusters. Specifically, all dine-in operations at cafes and restaurants are no longer allowed, meaning shops must switch entirely to selling takeaway items.

Moreover, barbershops, hair salons and other beautification services must close. From today, those entering the city must also fill in health declaration forms within 24 hours of their arrival.

[Photo via Nguoi Lao Dong]