Syria’s Idlib markets overcrowded without coronavirus preventative measures
IDLIB, Syria (North Press) – On Tuesday, the markets of Idlib, northwestern Syria, witnessed intense overcrowding during the first day of Ramadan, in light of almost complete absence of coronavirus preventative measures.
The markets of Sarmada, on the Syrian-Turkish border, north of Idlib, were crowded with customers coming to shop on the first day of Ramadan, amid the residents’ complaints about the high prices, especially in the absence of the control by the Salvation Government, which is affiliated with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Ala’ Abu Khaled, a resident of Sarmada, told North Press that most of the basic materials have been witnessing a sharp rise of prices compared to the past period, as the price of meat has risen significantly.
Abu Khaled talked about the almost complete absence of preventative measures, as most residents have forgotten about coronavirus and no longer wear face masks and other things.
Speaking to North Press, shoppers mentioned that shopping during Ramadan is no longer the same for everyone as it was before. Rather, it is only for the well-off and those with money.
Since the beginning of this month, northwest Syria has recorded the increase in the number of coronavirus infections, where Idlib Health Directorate had earlier warned of a second wave of the virus.