PANJIM: The shopkeepers from Panjim Municipal Market on Saturday claimed that no person from the market was tested positive for COVID-19, as informed by Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) Mayor Uday Madkaikar.
The CCP on Thursday announced closure of market premises for four days claiming that person selling liquor at a Tavern in the market was found positive for COVID-19 and that the person is absconding.
Addressing the media persons on Saturday, the shopkeepers said that no such incident was ever reported in the market and a rumour was being spread creating panic amongst public at large.
“The incident, as reported in media, never happened in the market. It was just a rumour which led to panic and closure of market,” shopkeeper Rajendra Dhamaskar said.
He also said that Corporation did not take shopkeepers and tenant association into confidence while imposing lockdown.
“The rumours have created much fear amongst public, who have kept themselves away from the market,” Dhamaskar said adding that the shopkeepers are already facing loss due to pandemic.
He also pointed out that sudden closure led to destruction of several perishable items such as vegetables and fruits.
The city market was partially opened for public on Saturday from 7 am to 12 noon. The market vendors, majority who hails from Chimbel, were asked not to come in absence of COVID negative certificate.
