With third-wave looming traders worried of restrictions

Last four days had been very crucial for the city as the daily corona cases crossed double-digit figure.

With the sudden increase in the cases, Guardian Minister for Nagpur district Dr Nitin Raut has warned recently that earlier restrictions would be re-imposed in the city in next 3 days.

The minister said that the government was compelled to re-impose the restrictions, under threat of the third wave. The market will remain open till 4 pm and restaurants till 8 pm. Soon The announcement led to a debate among traders/businessmen as well advertisement agencies whether the restrictions were necessary or not. While talking to traders, businessmen and restaurant owners, they expressed the opinion that there would have been a negative impact on the market if restrictions are imposed.

“Ad agencies are the first ones to be impacted with the restrictions. The decision of restrictions will have a negative and prolonged impact on the market”, said Nilesh Rathi, Anup publicity.

“As of now, the market was booming with festive season regular activities started in shops and trading business. However, the news of restriction had adverse impact on the business. Within two days we saw a sudden fall in business. If restrictions are being imposed then Government should form a policy on lockdown/restriction and issue uniform timings as well. Allowing some sectors to run the business till 8 pm and forcing others to close till 4 pm is injustice” he added.

Nitin Mulani branded showrooms owner said has business-wise the situation is going to be bad. We will see a detrimental effect on our market. After a long time we saw normalcy in the market, people again started to visit shops owing to the festive season. Now with the festive season, the restriction announcement will have a huge impact, once again shops pose a desert look. The time restriction for non-essential establishments is illogical and he wanted that there should be similar timing for business for all.

The restaurant business is also in a big dilemma with this announcement. Avinash Motwani a restaurant owner said if 8 pm timing is imposed for restaurants and café it will affect us as well. People often choose to spend the night time in the restaurant with their families and friends. Even with takeaways and online orders, we do not get limited orders that affects our business. Already we have to allow 50% customers with restricted timings with new restriction we would be forced to reduce staff and payment.

“There is no clarity on the new restriction as many other officials have said that decision is yet to be taken. Although even if restrictions are imposed hospitality sector will have a huge impact on it, the tourism sector will again suffer, said CA Nimesh Sutaria.

“The limited time period which is said to be imposed will not help much in controlling the spread of the virus as more people will visit various establishments that would ultimately lead to overcrowding,” he said.

Rohit Khurana Digwig Hyundai said “automobile industry was badly affected in every lockdown as we had to shut the shops. After suffering a loss, the business came back on track now and with the festive season around the corner imposing of restrictions will again lead to the downfall in the business”.

The traders and businessmen have now got relief with the announcement of Dr Nitin Raut making announcement on Thursday that there would be no restriction right now although he clarified that he may be compelled to impose restrictions if people fail to follow proper behaviour. The final decision depends on the situation in next couple of days.