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Dimapur, April 6 (EMN): The wholesale market in Dimapur saw a flurry of activity on April 6 after the district administration relaxed restrictions on the sale of essential commodities in the market, causing unnecessary commotion despite government’s advisory to maintain social distancing to check the spread of novel coronavirus (Covid-19).
The market had previously remained closed after the government announced lockdown orders to curb a potential spread of the coronavirus. However, an order by the district administration on April 5 relaxed some of the restrictions on public markets and this was the first time the wholesale market opened after five days of closure due to the lockdown.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror, Dimapur Chamber and Commerce Industry (DCCI) president Akashe K Zhimomi said that the wholesale market was jam-packed as retailers and shop owners from in and around Dimapur thronged the market to replenish their inventory.
"All essential commodities are available in the market, and even after today’s (Monday) blitz sale, ample quantity of essential commodities are in stock if needed. However, only a few perishable commodities are left," assured Zhimomi.
He also informed that whole-sellers, as well as retailers, have run into losses due to the lockdown as perishable commodities like vegetables get spoiled within a week.
Zhimomi acknowledged the government for keeping the fuel stations in the district open while suggesting that the government should look into automobile repair shops and service centres as well. All automobile repair shops and service outlets in Dimapur are closed because of the lockdown order and this has hampered the supply of essential commodities in the district.
'This is of great concern, especially for the department of Food and Civil Supplies, since many of their vehicles have broken down and are not in a condition to transport essential commodities,' Zhimomi explained.
Animal shelters and veterinary clinics in the district have also been affected by the lockdown. Currently, the lockdown guidelines for the district do not include veterinary services in the list of essential services that would be exempted. A veterinary doctor in Dimapur told this newspaper that since the district administration has not issued any notification or guidelines regarding the functioning of veterinary clinics in the district, he had to close his clinic.