Delhi Weekend Curfew: Markets closed on the first day of curfew, roads empty

New Delhi: As the weekend curfew began in the national capital on Saturday morning, streets were deserted and markets deserted.

The normally busy Lajpat Nagar market remained deserted. Only the most essential services were available as businesses were closed.

People coming out of their homes for work lauded the government’s decision and a local resident said the curfew would help contain the spread of the virus.

“Curfew is important as it will help prevent further spread of the virus, but the number of buses should increase. We have to wait for about 15 minutes for the bus to arrive,” ANI quoted him as saying.

In normal days, another bustling Janpath market of Delhi remained deserted.

An auto driver told that he was going to work after completing all the necessary procedures.

“It is necessary to come out of homes to earn a living. I left home at 6 am and earn Rs 400 by 10 am and I am going back home. We fear that the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing day by day. Days are increasing. Caution is necessary, but work is also necessary to make a living. I use all precautions, I use sanitiser when I take cash,” said an auto driver.

Another resident said, “We have to go out of our homes to buy food. Things are different now. We are scared but have to go out for work.”

To counter the COVID-19 spike, the DDMA had already planned to impose curfew in Delhi on Saturday and Sunday. All government employees will work from home except those providing vital services. In private offices, 50 percent of the employees will work from home.

(with ANI inputs)

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