Chandigarh discontinues odd-even closure of shops from September 4; to resume inter-state bus operations

Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, September 2

The UT administration on Wednesday has decided to discontinue the odd-even closure of shops in congested markets from September 4.

This decision comes after a review meeting chaired by the UT administrator VP Singh Badnore, here. However, the onus of maintaining social distancing and ensuring mask-wearing will be on shop owners.

In view of the rise in COVID-19 cases, the Administration had ordered the closure of the shops on the basis of odd-even formula in 12 congested markets—including Patel Market in Sector 15, Shashtri Market in Sector 22, Sadar Bazaar and Palika Bazaar in Sector 19 etc, of the city.

During the course of the meeting, it was also decided that the Apni Mandis would not be operated, until further orders.

However, Organic Markets could function with necessary precautions near Nagar Van.

The Chief Conservator of Forests will ensure proper social distancing and sanitization in the area.

The Administrator appealed to the citizens, market associations, volunteers and Municipal Councillors to advise people to immediately approach the Administration for medical help, in case of initial Covid symptom.

“Adequate beds, medicines and facilities are available for the treatment of corona patients”, he added.

Badore directed the Sub-Divisional Magistrates to keep a watch over their areas and find out and report symptomatic persons, if any, for immediate Covid check-up. Early detection will save valuable lives.

He also directed ramping of information, education and communication (IEC) activities to make people aware about following strict hygiene and take precautions to prevent infection.

KK Yadav, Deputy Commissioner (in charge), stated that 14,594 challans have been issued for various violations; such as not wearing masks and social distancing.

Sanjay Kumar Jha, Secretary Personnel, stated that the typing test is taken by Panjab University for selecting employees of UT Administration had been suspended due to Covid-19.

The university authorities would take appropriate decision on the matter shortly. It was further decided that inter-state bus operations should be resumed at the earliest convenient.

Badnore focused on taking care of vulnerable patients to keep the mortality rate low. He also directed that the complaints being received from various patients and persons in Control Room should be attended to urgently.

“It must be ensured that persons with symptoms are immediately transferred to hospitals for medical treatment, without any delay,” he added.