Slow response to UT move, 10 shops opt for 24x7 show

Chandigarh: Shop and commercial establishments in the city have started to opt for 24x7 operation, a move recently announced by the UT administration.
Deputy commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh said 10 registered shops and commercial establishments have submitted self-undertakings on the online portal of the labour department — labour.chd.gov.in, confirming that they have made necessary arrangements as per the notification to open during extended hours.This will allow them to open their shops 24x7, he added.
In a move aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business for shopkeepers and traders in UT, the labour department recently issued a notification allowing shops and commercial establishments registered under the Punjab Shops & Commercial Establishments Act 1958 to operate 24x7 throughout the year without requiring specific permission from the department.
To ensure effective implementation of this notification, the labour department has issued standard operating procedures (SOPs). Vinay Pratap Singh, who is also secretary-cum-commissioner, labour department, clarified that the extended operational hours are voluntary and not compulsory for shopkeepers and traders. Only those shops and commercial establishments registered with the labour department can avail of this facility.
Multiple teams from the department have initiated an awareness campaign in various markets to explain the SOP for extended operational hours.
These shops, primarily in the grocery and food business, are located across different parts of the city. The list of shopkeepers and traders opting for extended hours has been shared with the area SHO to ensure the safety of staff and customers. The list has also been shared with the Municipal Corporation to ensure cleanliness and waste management during extended hours.
To facilitate and raise awareness among interested shopkeepers and traders, the labour department has formed teams of six labour inspectors and supporting staff. Awareness meetings have been scheduled in the coming weeks for the benefit of traders and shopkeepers.
It was stated that any exemption would be cancelled if there is a violation of the terms and conditions, after providing an opportunity for a hearing by the competent authority. Complaints can be forwarded to the labour department, UT, at alcld-chd@chd.nic.in or 0172-2679000.