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Our Reporter
Dimapur, Nov. 13 (EMN): More than two months after the district administration decided to allow the reopening of popular market places amid the pandemic in Dimapur, protocols and guidelines to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 in such places seem to have been given the boot.
The government had, on September 2, issued guidelines for the reopening of several markets, including New Market, Hazi Park and Hong Kong market in Dimapur, but the rules are being blatantly violated, especially at the ever-crowded New Market.
Speaking to Eastern Mirror, the GB of New Market ward 19, Khekishe Aye, admitted that the ‘odd-even’ system of opening of shops was not being followed by the traders.
Aye shared that many of the traders had suffered huge losses, and since the festive season is already at the doorsteps, many of them are adamant to open shop.
“We are trying our best to follow the protocol and we have also approached the deputy commissioner to chalk out a solution for footpath vendors as well,” Aye said, adding that crowding takes place because of footpath vendors.
Here is video clip of New Market taken on November 13
Despite clear directives in the guidelines issued by the authorities, some of the shopkeepers do not wear masks throughout their business hours. Aye assured that all efforts would be made to make sure that the guidelines are strictly followed henceforth.
[Also read: Protocols to be followed at New Market, Hazi Park and Hong Kong market]
The administrator of Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC), Albert Ezung, also told this newspaper that the protocols issued in September are still in force and have to be followed strictly.
“The police are also aware of this arrangement and we are all keeping vigil on the situation, considering that the festive season is upon us,” said Ezung.
He added that certain arrangements are yet to be made for the footpath vendors in order to reduce crowding.
“We will take up the issue with the DC, district task force as well as the police again and apprise them,” assured Ezung.