COVID-19: Restriction imposed on local markets in Odisha capital

Bhubaneswar: As part of taking precautionary measure to fight against spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the state capital, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) today imposed restriction on operation of local markets under its jurisdiction.

Exercising the powers under sections 583 and 599 of Odisha Municipal Corporation Act, 2003, the BMC issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for daily markets to check crowd, ensure hygiene practice and social distancing.

In view of possibility of spread of the COVID-19 due to large congregation in the markets, the BMC authorities decided to shut the local markets in the evening.

As per the decision, the locals markets under BMC will remain opened for 12 hours from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm till March 31. The markets will be shut after 6.00 pm. The order will come into effect from March 19.

The following markets will function from morning to evening in Bhubaneswar:

1. Unit-I daily market
2. Unit-II market
3. Saheed Nagar daily market
4. Ruchika daily market
5. Old Town daily market
6. Indradhanu daily market
7. Damana Haat

Besides, the Zonal Deputy Commissioners have been asked to assess the situation at other daily and weekly markets and submit the report.