Markets in Tangail overflow with crowds amid Covid-19

Shoppers rushed to market disregarding Covid-19 health guidelines after businesses reopened in Tangail Sunday after a month and a half.

Mahmudul Hasan College Market, Tangail Plaza, Hira Super Market, Rajdhani Super Market, Sabur Khan Tower on Kalibari Road, PouroSuper Market and other markets remained crowded since morning.

Even though there were handwashing facilities in front of markets, people were rarely seen washing their hands.

Shafiqul Islam, who came to Tangail Plaza from Basail upazila, said his whole family had come to buy Eid clothes for boys and girls. 

When asked about coronavirus infection, he said it would be alright as long as he went home and took a bath with soap.

Traders said that they had been facing losses as the shops had been closed for a long time. If a little business could be done for a few days before Eid, the salaries of the employees could be paid, they said.

This is why we have opened shops despite the risk, added traders.

Doctors meanwhile fear that cases might see a jump if people continue defying social distancing rules.

Shafiqul Islam, resident medical officer of Tangail General Hospital, said that opening shops in the market this way would put people at greater risk.

Abul Kalam Mostafa, president of the district businessmen's unity alliance, said the movement of rickshaws and auto-rickshaws would be closed from Monday to reduce crowds. "If it is still crowded, the next decision will be made."

Tangail Deputy Commissioner Md Shahidul Islam said the administration would take steps to ensure that sales and purchases made in the markets were in compliance with the healthcare rules.