Barbers offer home service in Doda, respite for many

QUOTE: “This is my bread and butter and closing shop means I cannot get two meals for my family. I cannot wait for the distribution of ration by the government or other agencies. I had to think of other ways to earn for my family,” Tariq, barber

Amir Karim Tantray

Tribune News Service

Doda, April 15

As the people are confined to their homes amid the lockdown, trimming hair has become a herculean task for many as the barber shops are shut.

But a few barbers have come to the rescue of people and have started home service. This has brought some relief to people who wanted to have a haircut or get their beard trimmed.

After the first 10 days of the lockdown, a few barbers decided to contact people and provide services at the home of their customers.

Barbers have shared their mobile phone numbers with people and get calls in advance to book their slot for a haircut. They then accordingly prepare their schedule and go to the homes of their customers.

“This is my bread and butter and closing shop means I cannot get two meals for my family. I cannot wait for the distribution of ration by the government or other agencies. I had to think of other ways to earn for my family,” said Tariq, a barber.

The barbers are being particular about hygiene and disinfect their equipment before visiting a customer.

“We do not know the customer and his medical history. I disinfect all my equipment after a visit to any customer,” he said.

Many other barbers in Doda are also providing home service and are coming to the rescue of people.