Businesses rejoice, rev up for restart

Ahmedabad: The decision to allow the resumption of a slew of economic activities across non-containment zones of the state came as a major relief to Gujarat Inc. Industry players believe that the state’s economy will get a big boost with most economic activities including the operation of private offices, industries as well as shops and establishments, likely to resume from Tuesday, outside containment zones.
“Most economic activities across majority of urban centres in the state will be up and running,” said Chintan Thaker, co-chair, Assocham Gujarat Council.“This is a real boost to the state’s economy and a welcome decision. Trade and industry are geared up to resume business with necessary precautions and adherence to SOPs.”
With retail remaining completely shut, traders were reeling from severe liquidity crunch during the lockdown. “We are happy that the government has taken cognizance of the concerns of trade and industry,” said Jayendra Tanna, president, Gujarat Traders’ Federation (GTF). “As the revenue cycle restarts, there will be much ease in terms of liquidity.”
Industrialists are also expecting that the implementation of Lockdown 4.0 be made smooth to ensure no harassment of people travelling for work and business.
A major relief came to the hotels and restaurants sector which has been allowed to resume operations, albeit on a takeaway basis. “The decision to allow restaurants to resume operations will bring relief to the business which was already under stress,” said Narendra Somani, president, Hotels and Restaurants Association (HRA). “However, it may not gain much momentum as most takeaway orders take place during the evening.”
However, hoteliers also say that the operation of permit liquor stores should be allowed to resume. “Meanwhile, health liquor permit holders have also been anxious, as they are deprived of the supply of liquor for health reasons. We hope the government takes their plight into consideration,” Somani further added.