The threat of deadly Coronavirus has made its impact in Kashmir with face masks and sanitisers selling like hot cakes, resulting in their shortage in the market.
With health authorities stressing for personal hygieneincluding frequent hand cleansing and use of face masks, there has beentremendous demand for sanitisers and face masks during the past week. However,many people complained that either they couldn’t find masks at chemist shops orthey are sold at higher prices.
“Undue advantage of the situation is being taken by certainpeople. It is irony that in the times of global crisis, people are busysecuring their illicit profits,” said ShowkatHussain, a local from Nishat areaof Srinagar.
A group of locals from Soura complained, “We looked forsanitisers and masks. I couldn’t find one. Finally, there were masks with achemist, however the prices were too high.”
Greater Kashmir checked markets at city centreLalChowk, nearSMHS Hospital Karan Nagar, Soura near SKIMS, and found sanitisers, masks out ofstock. Only, a small quantity of masks was available with skeletal chemistshops in the city.
Pharmacists blame companies for price rice and shortage ofboth the items. “I used to sell a simple face mask for Rs 8 or maximum Rs 10,however now I am selling it at Rs 20 to Rs 25. This is because companies haveincreased their rates,” a chemist said.
However, authorities downplayed the shortage and price rise.
Director Drug and Food Controller Organization J&K,LotikaKhajuria, said: “What can department do in this? There is mask shortageall over India. And nobody is able to manage. We have taken it up withcompanies. Let’s see what happens.”
Asked about names of companies with which she has taken up thematter, she said: “We have asked them (companies) to share masks in market.Masks are not available all over India.”
About exorbitant rates, she said: “There is nothing likethis. Our teams are present on the ground.”
“You check with deputy controller. She will take action. Iam in Jammu. There is nothing to worry,shortage is across India,” she said, adding, “Sanitisers are available inmarket. People are buying these items more than required, leading to shortage.”
Her deputy in Kashmir, Irfana Ahmad, said: “Our teams are inthe market, there is no shortage.”
About exorbitant rates, Irfana said: “Dealers tell us thatthey are getting masks at higher prices from Delhi itself. If there is aspecific complaint, I will send my team there.”