Won’t support celebrations in CBD: Traders’ body

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Concerned about the rising fear of the Omicron variant, Brigade Road Association has decided not to organise New Year Celebrations on December 31. Hundreds of people throng M.G. Road and Brigade Road, in the heart of the city’s Central Business District for the New Year bash. They party in the nearby pubs, bars and restaurants, then move out onto the street itself. This year, however, the association is in favour of putting the brakes on this annual ritual, as it is impossible to ensure physical distancing in such large gatherings.

Speaking to News Trail, Suhail Yusuf, secretary, Brigade Road Shops and Establishment Association (BSEA) said, “Health should be the first priority. People have already faced a lot of trouble during the last two years due to Covid infections.”

This is in keeping with the recommendations of the Technical Advisory Committee, which had advised the state government to prevent crowding in public places, especially for religious or cultural activities, to contain the virus spread and ensure that public health is not at risk.

“Even if the curbs are lifted and if the government itself allows parties to be conducted, we have decided not to support the celebrations. We cannot risk the lives of people here for the sake of one day,” Yusuf said, adding, “God willing, we will celebrate many such new years, if we look after our health at this moment.”

Traders had been badly hit last year, as sales plummeted at the height of the pandemic. However, this year, the area has seen more youngsters hanging out on the streets and the shops nearby.

The trade bodies have given a representation to Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to allow them to continue with ‘normal business,’ with an assurance that all Covid protocols will be followed.