4 temporary markets to operate on March 26
SHILLONG: Iewduh (Bara Bazar) will be closed to prevent the spread of coronavirus till further orders and the state government has opened small markets in four places for emergency needs during normal days.
Briefing the media persons on Monday, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said temporary markets will come up in Anjalee Point to Cantonment Police Beat House, Lad Smit, Madan Umidengpun (7th Mile), Upper Shillong and Mawiong on March 26.
Tynsong said arrangements will be made for the distribution of essential groceries to local stores in the localities.
The deputy chief minister said instruction has been issued to officials of food and civil supplies and deputy commissioners to ensure that the customers are not harassed by the traders by way of overcharging.
The government has also decided to stop inter-district private transport.
Odd-even formula for private vehicles
Within the city, it was decided that private transport will be restricted to number plates with odd numbers (last digit of registration number) on March 24, even numbers on March 25, odd numbers on March 26, even numbers on March 27, odd numbers on March 28 and even numbers on March 29.
The government offices will function with the overall strength of 30 per cent.
Besides the first phase of lockdown on March 24 and 25, the government has resorted to second phase of shutdown on March 27, 28 and 29.
The government has decided to lift the lockdown on March 26 to allow the citizens to purchase essential commodities.
Depending on the situation, the government will take a decision whether to go for shutdown on March 30 and 31.
Total closure
As far as the arrangement for March 24, 25, 27, 28 and 29 is concerned, the government order said that operations of all markets, commercial and financial establishments in East Khasi Hills will be suspended.
During these days, there is a ban on operation of all forms of public transport.
Assembly or gathering of five or more persons in all public areas, premises, commercial and residential localities beyond the individual households will not be permitted.
Exemptions
The order will not be applicable to the security forces and medical teams on duty, pharmacies and all essential services including health services, MeECL, PHE, PWD, police and armed forces, fire and emergency service, food and civil supply, Shillong Municipal Board, Telecom, Telegraph and IT service, banks and ATMs.
Tynsong said the timing of the transaction in banks will be from 10 am to 2 pm due to limited staff.
Stating that movement of vehicles carrying essential commodities and goods, security forces and medical equipment are also exempted, the order, however, added that drivers and attendants of the vehicles will be subjected to medical screening.