BMC May Have New Timings For Non-Essential Shops

Bhubaneswar: Odisha government already given hints at the possibility of extension of the lockdown,  in the corona-affected areas, after May 3. Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) is mulling over how to go about the relaxations, striking a balance between the fight against COVID-19 and the existential realities of life.

According to official sources the BMC is planning to fix separate timings for opening of wholesale and retail units. While the wholesale could be allotted the 5 am to 9 am window to run their businesses, & the retail might function between 10 am and 5 pm.

Five outlets in a building or complex might not be allowed to open, sources informed, adding, only standalone shops might be permitted to remain open. Besides, the BMC is also considering allowing shops to operate on alternative days. The civic body, sources added, might soon notify the new rules, which would apply to shops other than outlets selling essential items.