Let semi-wholesalers, retailers work in rotation, say Koyambedu traders
Traders at Koyambedu need the State authorities to contemplate permitting semi-wholesalers to operate on a rotational foundation as an alternative of imposing a complete shutdown as it might severely have an effect on the livelihood of a number of retailers and labourers.
This demand comes after the federal government’s directive to shut fruits and vegetable stores in the Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex as a part of the brand new restrictions following the second wave of COVID-19. Such a sudden closure might additionally result in a scarcity of vegetable and fruits and an increase in costs.
Merchants famous that almost 1,800 semi-wholesale and retail outlets, which had been the ultimate section to reopen after the lockdown in November, had been but to stabilise their enterprise. Another shutdown would severely have an effect on households depending on them.
G.D. Rajasekaran, president, Federation of All Traders Associations of KWMC Periyar Market, mentioned the traders resumed enterprise after practically six to eight months. They weren’t given area on the non permanent market in Thirumazhisai.
“Instead of a complete shutdown, the government must consider 50% shops to remain open on a rotational basis. The traders’ body was not consulted before the announcement of the closure. We are planning to hold a traders’ meeting and also meet the authorities concerned on the issue,” he mentioned.
Similarly, fruit retailers additionally famous that semi-wholesalers had been an vital hyperlink, who sourced fruits resembling watermelon, guava and pomegranate. In addition, they mentioned that there was no readability on the part of the outlets to be closed.
The authorities involved should maintain talks with the traders’ physique as semi-wholesalers had been typically affected.
Tamil Nadu Vanigar Sangankalin Peramiappu additionally opposed the transfer to ban retail commerce in wholesale markets with out consulting the traders. Only 40% of the semi-wholesale and retail trades had resumed at Koyambedu and one other shutdown would have a foul impression on retailers, it added.