DMP issues instructions to shopping mall authorities
People will have to shop in malls within 2km of their homes
The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have issued a set of instructions to the authorities of shopping malls in the capital set to open on May 10, ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr.
After being closed for more than a month from March 25 due to the nationwide shutdown, shops and shopping malls in Bangladesh will reopen from May 10, the commerce ministry said on Monday.
According to a press release issued by the DMP, markets can be kept open from 10am to 4pm, but temporary shops will not be allowed in public places or on sidewalks.
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Shoppers will have to shop in malls within 2km of their residence. They will have to carry identity card or other credentials – passport, driving licence or utility bills – with them for verification of their residential areas.
All shopping malls will have to provide disinfectant to shoppers and deploy thermal scanners. Shopping centres and malls must have arrangements for hand washing and provide sanitiser during trading hours.
Shoppers will have to follow the health guidelines announced by the health ministry. All shoppers, vendors and store employees will have to wear face masks and hand gloves.
In front of the malls, the authorities will have to put up banners inscribed with the following words: "Risk of death if you do not follow hygiene rules."
Shoppers and vendors will have to maintain at least one metre social distance. Shoppers will not be allowed to enter a crowded store where social distance cannot be measured. Each shop shoul should have signs asking people to maintain social distance.
Children, old citizens and the sick should be discouraged to enter malls, the press release further adds.
Unnecessary gatherings should not be allowed and mall authorities should use microphones to request people to leave once they are done shopping.
Entry and exit points must be separate.
Shoppers or vendors not wearing masks will have to buy and wear masks before entering malls and stores. Otherwise measures will be taken to prevent them from entering.
Vehicles entering shopping malls have to be disinfected too. Proper steps should be taken so drivers stay inside the cars and not hang outside. CNG and rickshaws will be available in limited numbers so that people can visit shopping malls.
