PANJIM: As most areas of Capital City sported a semi-deserted look with stores being closed and the bus stand remaining empty, frenetic scenes were witnessed at the Panjim municipal market.
Mayor issued directions late morning for the market to be closed on the grounds that social distancing and other COVID-related protocols were not being followed.
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Police who were patrolling the City to ensure that guidelines are maintained, also made their presence felt at the market, as the vendors, who protested the manner in which the decision was being imposed, were made to leave the premises.
While the vendors have been allowed to operate in the lane near Inox, they complained that unlike the lockdown last year, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) had not done markings on the lane that would ensure social distancing is maintained or make it clear where the vendors can sit.
While such markings are expected to be put in place by Thursday, the vendors criticised the authorities for allegedly handling the situation badly.
The vendors said they should have been given at least an hour or two to vacate the market area and not immediately as was done.
