A wave that wiped out their livelihood
The Hindu
Pushed to the brink by rising overheads, many have closed their businesses
More and more shops are displaying the board “for sale”, “to-let” boards during the second wave of COVID 19 as the small-time traders seem to be giving up hope on their business. Many appear to have wilted under the burden of paying the rent and statutory benefits like ESI and provident fund to their employees, besides other overheads. “There seemed to be a little space for sustenance until we were permitted to keep our shops open for a few hours in a day. The complete lockdown has broken our back,” said Selvaraj, a trader in hardware in Ariyamangalam in Tiruchi. “We have exhausted all means, including pledging of jewellery for remaining afloat so far. All doors are now shut for us,” said Sahayam, a trader in electrical and electronics goods.More Related News