PANJIM: The local vegetable and fruit vendors, who were otherwise selling their goods from the Panjim Municipal Market, will now be given space near Inox’s open courtyard.
From Tuesday, the vendors are expected to start their sale from this location and the market-Inox stretch will be closed from 1 pm.
Elsewhere, with the Centre further granting relaxation, several stand-alone shops were opened in Panjim city, while few have applied for permission to open from the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP). It is now exploring the possibility of allowing shops in the capital’s core commercial area- 18th June road, on alternate days in order to maintain social distancing.
Panjim Mayor Uday Madkaikar said the process to demarcate sitting area for each vegetable and fruit vendor has started near Inox’s open courtyard. “We will allow only Goan vendors to sell vegetables and fruits, since the market will continue to remain closed. They will have to wear mask and we will ensure social distancing is maintained,” said Madkaikar.
He added that the decision has been taken after coming across several alleged illegal shops and vehicles indulging in selling of goods, without permission.
Further, he said stand-alone shops, restaurant kitchens have started their operations as per the Union Ministry of Home Affairs’ guidelines.
However, hair salons, spas, gyms, street foods stalls, casinos, night cruise, bars, auditoriums, will remain closed till further directions from the govt, said.
“We cannot allow shops to open in places like 18th June road or those on MG road in one go. They are busy areas. Based on the applications, we will consider their request for opening on alternate days. Let us see, how it works,” he added.
