Delhi traders divided over time frame to restart businesses May 18 onwards
nNEW DELHI: After almost two of months closure, Delhi’s traders appear to be divided on reopening of markets after May 17 -- when the third leg of the nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of Covid-19 comes to an end.
A section of traders want markets to remain shut till the end of May. But others say there is an urgent need to revive economic activity in the city, citing loss of business and migrant labourers being forced to return home.
A total of 359 virus cases were reported in the city, on Wednesday taking its count to 7,998.
Some associations want the government to opt for the oddeven formula — taking a cue from the road rationing scheme used by the Delhi government — in big markets. Others suggest fixed days or duration for each market to open to ensure crowd management and social distancing. These measures were discussed at an online meeting called by the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) on Wednesday.
The Delhi government had till Wednesday — a day after Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal sought suggestions from public regarding relaxation in lockdown norms after May 17— received over 500,000 responses.
Brijesh Goyal, national convener of CTI, said, “A majority of traders’ associations in the Capital want the government to reopen markets. Most associations, especially in big markets, suggested the odd-even formula to be implemented. They all know they will do very little business for the next 10-15 days, but at least they can inspect the condition of goods and clean their shops.”
Some associations, such as those in Khan Market, have prepared a plan to ensure social distancing once the market opens.
The Khan Market Traders Association (KMTA) plans to only allow two entry points (front and back), install a sanitisation tunnel, thermal screening, a ban on parking inside for customers, and sanitisers at all shops.
Sanjiv Mehra, president of the
KMTA, said, “Those visiting our market understand the need for social distancing. Apart from screening visitors, only those who have the Aarogya Setu application will be allowed to enter the market.”
But some associations — such as the New Delhi Traders’ Association in Connaught Place and Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal — prefer to wait before reopening markets, as the number of cases were increasing every day. The two organisations are of the view that the markets should stay shut for another 10-15 days, at least.
Sanjay Bhargava, president of Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal, said, “Our market is close to a containment area and with the number of Covid-19 cases on the rise, it’s better we wait for some more time.”
Moreover, opening markets will be of no use if public transport is not operational, said Atul Bhargava, president of New Delhi Traders Association.
“The operational cost is very high. There is no point opening shops if there are no customers,” said Bhargava.