Diamond markets extend voluntary lockdown

“Diamond markets will be shut but safe deposit vaults will be allowed to be opened for traders for four hours on July 20 and July 24 so that they can continue their work. Traders have unanimously decided to shut shops and it is in the interest of everyone in the city,” said Dinesh Navadia, regional chairman, Gem Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

SURAT : Diamond traders in Mini Bazaar and Choksi Bazaar have extended their voluntary lockdown till July 31 to help stall the spread of Covid-19 in the city.

Earlier, the diamond markets in Varachha area had been shut from July 12 to Juy 19. There are around 3,000 traders engaged in diamond trading in Mini Bazaar and Choksi Bazaar in Varachha area, with Varachha (A) having 1,126 cases, Varachha (B) 816 and Katargam zone having 2,008 cases.

“Diamond markets will be shut but safe deposit vaults will be allowed to be opened for traders for four hours on July 20 and July 24 so that they can continue their work. Traders have unanimously decided to shut shops and it is in the interest of everyone in the city,” said Dinesh Navadia, regional chairman, Gem Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC).

“There was a need to extend the voluntary lockdown in areas such as Varachha which are Covid-19 hotspots. Further decision will be taken after assessing the situation,” said Navadia.

‘SMC officers are asking various diamond, textile markets, shop owners and business associations to observe ‘voluntary’ shutdown for a few days to contain the spread of the virus,” said a businessman.

Courtesy: Economic Times