New Delhi: On Saturday morning, as the weekend curfew began in the national capital, the roads were desolate and the markets were abandoned.
The normally busy Lajpat Nagar market was deserted. Only the most essential services were available because the businesses were closed.
People leaving their houses for work applauded the government's decision, and a local resident said that the curfew would help curb the virus' spread.
"Curfew is important as it will help contain further spread of the virus, but the number of buses operating should increase. We are having to wait for nearly 15 minutes for the bus to come," he was quoted by ANI in its report.
The Janpath market, another bustling market in Delhi on a typical day, was desolate.
An auto-driver stated that he was on his way to work while taking all necessary procedures.
"It is necessary to come out of homes to earn a livelihood. I came out of home at 6 am and earned Rs 400 till 10 am and I am on my way back home. We are scared that the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing day by day. Precaution is important, but to make a living, work is also important. I use all precautions, I use sanitiser when I take cash," an auto-driver said.
"We have to go out of our homes for buying food. Things are different now. We are scared but will have to go out for work," another resident said.
To combat the COVID-19 spike, the DDMA had already planned to implement a curfew in Delhi on Saturdays and Sundays. Except for those who provide critical services, all government employees will work from home. In private offices, 50% of the workers will work from home.
(With ANI inputs)