Let semi-wholesalers, retailers work in rotation, say Koyambedu traders

They say a sudden shutdown can affect their livelihoods

Traders at Koyambedu want the State government to consider allowing semi-wholesalers to function on a rotational basis instead of enforcing a total shutdown as it would severely affect the livelihood of several merchants and labourers. This demand comes after the government’s directive to close fruits and vegetable retail outlets in the Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex as part of the new restrictions following the second wave of COVID-19. Such a sudden closure could also lead to a shortage of vegetable and fruits and a rise in prices. Merchants noted that nearly 1,800 semi-wholesale and retail shops, which were the final segment to reopen after the lockdown in November, were yet to stabilise their business. Another shutdown would severely affect families dependent on them.