KATHMANDU: Shops and stores in several parts of Kathmandu, including major business hub, New Road, have opened today violating the ongoing lockdown enforced by the government.
The country is in a lockdown since March 24 in a bid to stem the coronavirus pandemic. The government has extended the lockdown until June 14.
The National Federation of Trade and Commerce of Nepal had on Wednesday called its members deciding to operate shops and businesses across the country till 11: 00 am every day from Thursday.
It has, however, urged people to adopt necessary precautions.
People, particularly businessmen and daily wage workers have been asking the government to change the modality of lockdown claiming that the lockdown has adversely affected people’s normal life and the economic activities.
Several trading houses, and retail shops have also resumed their operations in Kathmandu.
Meanwhile, the government is mulling to bring changes in the lockdown’s modality.
A cabinet meeting has been called for 4 pm today to take a decision to this effect.
According to sources, the meeting is expected to seek alternative ways to the lockdown as Prime Minister himself is worried with the wide-ranging impact caused by the ongoing lockdown.
It should be noted that economists, public health experts had on Wednesday suggested the government to take steps to relax the ongoing nationwide lockdown in a cautious manner.
According to them, the prolonged lockdown has thrown the life of people out of gear.
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