New Delhi:
Grocery stores in Delhi will be allowed to operate 24/7 during the 21-day lockdown to halt the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said today after a meeting with Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and senior government officials.
The news comes amid widespread confusion and panic over availability of essential goods - such as milk, bread, fruits and vegetables - as people rush to stores to stock up during the lockdown.
On Wednesday Chief Minister Kejriwal told Delhi residents that his government was prepared to ensure supply of essential goods.
"During this 21-day lockdown, we will do our best to make sure nobody goes hungry. This is a difficult time. We are not saying there will not be problems, but we will do our best to make sure everyone is looked after," he said, stressing, "There will be no shortage of essential goods".
Mr Kejriwal also said people providing essential services - such as health care and journalism - would not be stopped from carrying out their duties so long as they carried identity cards with them.
Others, such as shopkeepers selling vegetables and groceries, have been asked to contact the government to get an e-pass that will allow them to function during the lockdown.
