SWABI: The influx of people in bazaars and cattle markets just ahead of Eidul Azha has made it impossible to follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) devised for containing the spread of coronavirus.

During a visit to the cattle markets and bazaars this correspondent noted that because of the rush it was difficult to get a foothold, while in Topi tehsil headquarters the traffic got jammed several times. Same was the case in the Swabi city and other areas.

The traders said that they were expecting more rush in the markets and shopping centres on Friday (today). However, it was seen that neither the customers nor the traders followed the SOPs for protecting themselves from coronavirus.

The district administration has designated 12 cattle markets in the district in different areas, but after the protest demonstration by the Islahi Jirga a number of private cattle markets like the previous practice had appeared for trade of sacrificial animals.

During a visit to the cattle markets in Karnal Sher Khan Kallay, Gohati and various other areas, this scribe noted that the people were dealing with each other like previously and no one was following the SOPs as directed by the government.

In all the markets, this correspondent saw only one motorcyclist Sirzamin Khan of Maneri Bala village who was wearing a mask. “I have fulfilled my responsibility to protect myself from the virus. Whether other people wear face mask or not it’s their business,” he told this correspondent when asked about importance of using the mask.

A number of people also said that the danger of coronavirus had been over. It is feared that the people would continue to show this non-serious attitude and violate the SOPs during Eid greetings, etc.

ELECTROCUTED: A man was electrocuted on Friday when he tried to save his father who had just got an electric shock, said police.

The incident occurred in Jalbai village of Chota Lahor tehsil. The deceased, identified as Yasir Khan, was trying to save his father, but himself touched the live wire and was electrocuted.

Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser and officials and leaders of political parties visited the residence of Arif Yousafzai, Ab Tak TV bureau chief’s residence here at Tandkoi to offer their condolences on the death of his minor son and daughter.

The two children died in a gas leakage explosion in Mr Arif’s House in Peshawar.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2020