Bhubaneswar: With stage set for reopening of markets to give an impetus to economy in Unlock 3, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged people to be ‘extra cautious’ specially in crowded markets. The word of caution comes from BMC Commissioner Prem Chandra Chaudhary who informed that a COVID-19 positive patient, a vegetable trader at Aiginia Alu Gadi (wholesale potato market), has infected as many as 41 persons.
The ‘Super Spreader’ also runs a shop at Unit-1 market and he was found COVID positive during a testing camp conducted by BMC officials.
As per Chaudhary, 41 COVID-19 positive cases linked to the concerned trader were subsequently detected during contact tracing.
“The Alu Gadi trader has infected 41 persons including his family members, his workers and labourers. Had they worked taking precautions and used masks, sanitizers and maintained social distancing, COVID-19 positive cases could have been restricted within 2 to 5,” said Chaudhary.
Citing another case where 21 COVID-19 positive cases were detected from Unit-4 fish market in the Smart city, the BMC Commissioner stated that it cannot be ruled out that there will be no further infection.
“The unit-4 fish market was closed for 14 days and massive sanitation drive was carried out. But people need to change their behaviour as it has been observed in the past that social distancing norms were violated in fish markets,” Chaudhary added.
BMC officials have urged residents not to visit markets frequently rather buy vegetables and other essential commodities once in every four to five days. During shopping, people should adopt necessary precaution like wearing of masks and maintaining social distancing.
(Edited By Pradeep Singh)
Also Read: Odisha Unlock3: Shopping Malls To Reopen In Bhubaneswar