Advertisement

COVID-19: Shopping Centre and Restaurant Associations Request Permission to Reopen Premises


COVID-19: Shopping Centre and Restaurant Associations Request Permission to Reopen Premises
SHARES

The Shopping Centre Association of India (SCAI) on Thursday wrote to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal requesting permission for malls and shopping centres to reopen citing a decline in coronavirus cases in Mumbai. The SCAI stressed that all COVID-19 guidelines will be followed if centres are allowed to reopen. 

“In light of the above and the hardships being faced by the industry, we seek your support, which will ensure the industry gets its due from the exchequer. We strongly urge you to allow shopping centres and malls to operate as per regular operational hours,” the letter read.

The letter by SCAI went on to say that nearly 80 per cent of the staff that work at malls, restaurants, shops, and service sectors come from economically weaker backgrounds adding that the closure of establishments is directly impacting their livelihoods. 

“The government’s strict and efficient disease containment and management strategy has been effective under your able supervision and hence, the state is ready for smooth opening of all economic activities,” the letter further read.

Also readNavi Mumbai Municipal Corporation To Set Up Vaccination Centers In 111 Wards

Separately, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has written to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray requesting some concessions for the sector they represent. Furthermore, the HRAWI has also sought permission for restaurants, bars, and hotels to reopen with dine-in service till at least 11 PM. 

The agency is also seeking a waiver in statutory fees paid by establishments including electricity bills, water and property taxes, as well as a full relief in excise fees. 

It’s unlikely that the State Government will budge to all of these demands given that health officials have already raised concerns about a potential third wave of COVID-19. The state recently set up a Paediatric Task Force to deal with the potential impact of the deadly virus on children. 

ReadSputnik V To Available From The 2nd Week Of June Through Apollo Hospitals

RELATED TOPICS
Advertisement
MumbaiLive would like to send you latest news updates