Coronavirus Pune: Residents keep distance as local markets open

Pune: Maharashtra, the epicentre of the nation's coronavirus outbreak, witness a semblance of normality as most shops open under the new lockdown 4.0 guidelines. 

Residents of Vimannagar, Kalyaninagar and parts of Kharadi have observed absolute social distancing norms as residents step out to visit grocery stores, stationery and toy shops as well as to repair bikes and four-wheelers in garages. Following the latest guidelines, markets in these areas have opened up.

Barricades have been put by shop owners since the entry into shops is limited, and customers can only purchase through the counter to follow the social distancing norms. 

"We ask every customer to stop at the entryway and hand over the cellphone for repairs," Ravi Sharma, owner of a mobile repair shop in Vimannagar told TOI. No one is allowed inside the store. He has marked safe distance outside his shop, and customers follow the rules diligently.

Residents in Vimannagar also witnessed that a lot of shops in the area have tied ropes at the entrance, so no one gets into the premises. This should contribute to some degree preventing the spread of infection as customers inside the shop do not end up touching items.

Supermarkets in Kharadi ensure tokens are given to customers with date and time to avoid overcrowding. Only ten customers are allowed inside a supermarket at a time. Customers collect the token a day in advance. 

At Kalyaninagar, a toy shop has established a new safety iron grill at the counter and have employed and employed an extra worker to bring the required items to the customer from within the store. The system assists in keeping everyone safe.