Contrary to the usual hustling and bustling image, the streets in Hanoi have become quieter on the first day of applying social distancing under Directive 16 of the goverment.
The number of vehicles in traffic was significantly reduced compared to normal days. However, it is not enough to surprise those who are used to traffic jams and crowds of the capital.
Going deep into the residential areas, measures applied under Directive 16 were more clearly shown. The area of Lane 37 in Tran Quoc Hoan Street, Cau Giay, was formerly a temporary market.
However, this morning the local authority has blocked the entrance and exit of the market. They closed it to prevent the COVID-19 epidemic.
Under the new directive, traditional markets are allowed to open so people can buy essential goods. Non-essential stalls in those markets will have to close.
It was 6 am at Nghia Tan market, one of the largest traditional markets in the Cau Giay district. The main gate of the market was closed and shoppers can only enter the market from the back gate.
The number of shoppers didn’t change much compared to normal days, most of them were comfortable, assured. They also didn’t buy too many goods./.
