MQM-P demands resumption of trade

Local leaders say traders cannot afford further lockdown extension

HYDERABAD: Asking the Sindh government to ease the lockdown and allow the resumption of trade, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan stated that traders could ill-afford a further extension of the closure.

The MQM-P's Hyderabad chapter leaders and legislators on Thursday held a meeting with the representatives of different traders' associations at their party office.

"Though the lockdown to control the spread of coronavirus is inevitable, the situation of the traders has lapsed from bad to worse and needs immediate restorative measures," said the party's Hyderabad chapter organiser, Zafar Ahmed Siddiqui.

Crime takes a break for coronavirus in Karachi

He said the Sindh government should not limit its response to the traders' concerns to mere statements, instead urging it to use practical measures to address the complex situation.

"Sindh's rulers seem oblivious of the ordeals of the traders and are not taking any concrete steps to alleviate their suffering," he added.

Meanwhile, party MNA Salahuddin said the provincial government should immediately allow trade and industry to resume their activities.

He added that this would provide relief to the business community and their employees while also restoring trust in the government.

MPA Rashid Khilji asked the provincial government to expedite the process of creating the standard operating procedures in consultation with trade and industry representatives.

City on lockdown: Karachi keeps shut to observe ‘black day’

"The poor people are starting to commit suicide. The Sindh government should also keep in view the perilous situation arising due to the lockdown while combatting the threat of Covid-19," Khilji said, adding that countries such as Germany, that were worse affected by the virus, had allowed trade and industry to resume operations.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 8^th, 2020.