Small traders open shops defying ‘lockdown’ in Rajshahi

Owners of small businesses in Rajshahi defied the government-imposed restrictions and opened their shops this morning.

Many traders and their employees opened shops at the RDA Market, in the heart of the city, on the second day of the seven-day "lockdown," reports our staff correspondent.

Maksudur Rahman, organisational secretary of Rajshahi Businessmen Union Committee, said that they held a meeting with local authorities about traders' demands.

Photo: collected

"The authority is, however, yet to let us know of their decision, and we also have not come up with an internal decision regarding opening businesses during the 'lockdown'," he said.

However, many business owners have opened their shops across the city this morning, he said, adding that "those who felt helpless regarding losses opened their businesses today."

Photo: collected

A few buyers were seen arriving at the RDA Market in the early hours.

Yesterday, traders blocked Shaheb Bazar Road, demanding that government let them open shops and run their businesses during the restrictions.