Buzz returns to Pune markets with extended timings

PUNE: The markets in the city teemed with customers on Monday, following extension of business timings, as shops put up barriers and demarcated areas with ropes to prevent crowding.
Most shops had sanitisers in place at entry points, with staffers telling customers to wear masks and follow Covid-appropriate behaviour.
Manjitsingh Ajwani, who runs a shop in Ravivar Peth, fixed a plastic sheet at the counter to avoid direct contact with customers.
Ajwani said, “I tell customers to wear mask and avoid crowding at the counter.
It is essential that every person follows the measures to minimise the possibility of spread of the virus,” he added.
Sanjay Talegaonkar, who runs a jewellery shop near Sonya Maruti Chowk, said, “We have kept hand sanitizers at the entrance and have told our employees to wear masks at all times.
We have kept adequate distance between two counters so as to ensure social distancing.
The footfall is increasing, which is a good sign as the shops were closed for almost for two months.
We are telling customers to visit the shop within the stipulated time so as to avoid rush.” Sohil Memon, who runs a hardware shop near Bohari Ali, has tied a rope at the entrance to prevent customers from reaching the counters directly.
“We are telling customers to enter the shop after temperature checks,” Memon said.
The traders’ associations said that they have told their members to prevent crowding inside the shops and, if possible, provide time slots to customers.
Sachin Nivangune, president, Pune District Retailers Association, said, “We are thankful to the administration for increasing business timings, but at same time we have cautioned shopkeepers about possible increase in footfall and have told them to take appropriate measures.
The shops should be shut strictly at 4pm.
The shopkeepers must initiate steps to prevent unnecessary crowding and avoid entertaining customers not wearing masks,” he said.
Meanwhile, local civic ward offices have formed social media groups of traders to create awareness about Covid norms.
“We have initially started with creating awareness, which will continue for the next two-three days.
Shopkeepers flouting Covid norms will face action,” said an official attached to the Dhankwadi-Sahakarnagar civic ward office.
Official from the anti-encroachment department of the PMC said, “The squads will conduct surprise visits in the markets to check whether the traders are following norms and adhering to social distancing.
People should also continue to wear face cover,” the official added.