Mumbai: Deserted streets, police checkpoints on Day 2 of weekend lockdown

The Ghatkopar to Bhandup Eastern Express Highway, with barely a few vehicles, on Sunday. Pic/Sameer Markande

On the second of the weekend lockdown, the western suburbs bore a deserted look. In areas like Borivli, Dahisar and Kandivli, only shops selling essential products were opened on Sunday, but not many customers were spotted. There was a crowd only at Borivli station, as people were waiting to board outstation trains.

Police nakabandi at Dahisar on Sunday. Pic/Satej Shinde

"The situation is definitely getting grim. I have been constantly checking the Aarogya Setu app for COVID-19 cases in my vicinity, and the numbers are increasing. It was wise to stay at home. Early announcement of the weekend lockdown helped, as we were able to stock up all the required items," said Abhishek Raut, a resident of Borivli.

Sachin Jadhav, a resident of Dahisar, said, "While the early announcement ensured a successful lockdown on the weekend, one should have seen the markets on Friday. There should be proper restrictions throughout the week as well."

At Dahisar naka, police were on constant vigil. All cars, both incoming and outgoing, were checked to enquire about the purpose of travel. People with valid reasons were allowed to enter or leave the city.

Checkpoints were set up at Juhu circle, Santacruz and Bandra. Two-wheelers and bikers were apprehended for venturing out without any reason. Mostly delivery executives of the food aggregator services were spotted on the roads. Nakabandi was set up in Worli as well.

In south Mumbai, streets near CST and BMC headquarters, and the Crawford market were empty.