Chandigarh: Odd-even in congested markets till August 24

CHANDIGARH: Providing no relief to shopkeepers, the UT administration on Friday issued orders for continuation of odd-even policy in congested markets as a step to stem the spread of new coronavirus till August 24.
UT adviser Manoj Parida said the situation was reviewed and orders passed on the basis of recommendations received from a committee headed by the finance secretary. The sub-divisional magistrates will coordinate with market associations for smooth functioning and strict enforcement of the orders. The weekend closure of Sukhna Lake will continue till further orders. Apart from previously finalised markets, the administration included Sector 18 electronic market under the formula.

Shopkeepers of congested markets urged the administration to review the decision, asking officials to should conduct an inspection of the markets to assess the situation and notice the low footfall of customers.
Sanjay Kumar, a shopkeeper of Sector 22, said they have already suffered huge losses due to the coronavirus lockdown. “There are hardly any customers in the market. We are already struggling to pay water, electricity charges and property tax. We also have to pay rent and salaries to employees. The decision to reintroduce odd-even in only select markets should be revoked,” he suggested.
In the review meeting, UT administrator V P Singh Badnore appealed to residents to celebrate Independence Day function while maintaining proper social distancing and following hygienic practices during the events.