By Ibrahim Alawi

Okaz/Saudi Gazette

JEDDAH — Jeddah Mayoralty has stopped retail sales in the vegetable and fruit market (halaka) here, and has allocated the market for dealing in wholesale to suppliers and traders only.

The decision aims to reduce movement and prevent crowding that might contribute to the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) infection.

The measure is in implementation of the curfew decision, not to leave one’s home except for the most urgent need to purchase requirements from the nearest supplies center or shop, spokesman of Jeddah Mayoralty and Director of Public Relations Muhammad Al-Bgumi told Okaz/Saudi Gazette.

He further said that the vegetables and fruit are sold in wholesale quantities to the suppliers, who in turn carry out the distribution to the supply stores, so that the citizens can purchase their needs from the nearest supply shop or center.

Al-Bgumi said all mayoralities have been informed of the decision after referring the issue to the ministry of municipal and rural affairs.