Shillong, June 17: Iewduh (Bara Bazar), the biggest traditional cum wholesale market in the State, is set to open once more after nearly 2 months of shut down. To ensure that the market is opened with the safest measures amid the Corona pandemic, the district administration and the Office of the Syiem of Hima Mylliem have undertaken a two-day vaccination drive to inoculate all the shop owners and hawkers of the market.

On Wednesday, 245 shopkeepers and hawkers were vaccinated. On Thursday, the number is expected to be similar or higher.

Syiem of Hima Mylliem’s Myntri, M. Kharlukhi said 250 coupons were issued for Thursday, but the numbers are yet to be calculated for the day. He said the coupons were given to allot slots to ensure that social distancing is maintained, thereby avoiding crowding of people.

He, however, added that they will not force anyone to take the vaccine but are only making an appeal to the people to take the vaccine.

Shop owner Upender, who had taken the vaccine and was waiting in the observation room, said that he had taken the vaccine so that he could protect himself and also others. “I have taken the vaccine because I want to be able to carry out my business because I am suffering,” he said.

The East Khasi Hills District Administration along with the Chief of Hima Mylliem and the CEM of KHADC had held discussions on reopening of shops at iewduh.

The Deputy Commissioner has decided to allow 15 per cent of shops to be opened on Friday. Out of the 5000 shops a total of 1,222 shops will be allowed to open. 185 shops per day will be allowed to open and 184 hawkers will also be allowed to carry out their activities.