Reality of reopening malls and markets

In an attempt to ease the nationwide lockdown and resume economic activities, selective shopping malls and other businesses were allowed to function on a "limited basis" starting from May 10 to mitigate the economic losses that have been weighing heavy on them by the day. However, we are appalled to learn from a recent report published in this daily that on the very first day, many shoppers and store staff defied the safety directives set by Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), risking their own lives and those of the general public.

In an attempt to curb the spread of the virus, DMP issued around 12 directives for all those who would be visiting the malls and markets during the pandemic, prior to the reopening. But the report states that different markets around Dhanmondi, Elephant Road, Islampur, Nilkhet, Panthopath and Science Lab intersection blatantly disregarded the precautionary measures. And to make matters worse, roadside vendors were seen selling clothes on the footpaths near Baitul Mokarrom, Gausia Market and New Market with equal disregard. Numerous buyers and sellers were seen without masks or gloves, many shops did not have hand sanitisers for the customers and some people were seen shopping with their children, violating the government's health guidelines. The directives were meant to be strictly maintained—that there should be installation of disinfection chambers at the entrance of every shopping mall, setting up of thermal scanners and separate temperature measurement systems, barring of people without masks from entering markets, and banners illustrating the importance of following health safety and social distancing guidelines—none of which are being followed in most market places.

Surprisingly, in a situation in which monitoring is essential, there were barely any law enforcement personnel to ensure whether the safety standards were being followed or not. The flagrant disregard for safety measures risks a second wave of coronavirus infections, which we cannot afford given how overburdened our healthcare system already is. As both deaths and infections continue to gain momentum, the authorities must immediately intervene to strictly implement the directives set forth since the public seem unable to comply. If these directives cannot be met, returning to full lockdown seems to be the only safe option.