Distancing itself from the calls of other trader associations for reopening shops and markets amid deteriorating financial condition of people, the Lahore Division Sarafa and Jewellers Association (LDS&JA) has announced to completely support of the government in further maintaining the lockdown due to rapidly increasing the coronavirus spread in Punjab.

The decision was announced by LDS&JA President Muhammad Ahmad in a statement issued on Sunday.

He said that reopening the shops and markets at this crucial time when the coronavirus is rapidly spreading across the country would be tantamount to welcoming a major disaster. "Keeping in view the current situation, all the Sarafa and jewellery markets across the province would remain closed until further government decision," he added.

"We would not become a part of any move by other trader associations which are threatening to reopen the shops and markets and forcing the government to support their move," he declared.

He added that though the country is currently going through a hard time, it is therefore necessary for the federal and provincial governments to give relief package to traders instead of allowing them to work.