With more services being allowed to operate, the Giftland Mall has partially reopened.
In a telephone interview, Davindra Deonarine, Chief Operations Manager, told Stabroek News yesterday that with the reopening, the mall has instituted strict guidelines for persons to follow, including a security team monitoring the entrances to ensure that persons are washing their hands and ensuring social distancing is maintained at all times. He added that the mall continues to do routine checks to ensure that customers and staff are complying with the COVID-19 guidelines.
Following the initial implementation of COVID-19 measures, only the FoodMaxx Supermarket and the pharmacy at the mall were in operation.
The businesses that are now reopened include those dealing in electronics, telecommunications, and food.
However, the food court is not open for persons to dine in as this is prohibited under the current COVID-19 measures.
Stabroek News spoke with some of the concessionaires. Among them was Sarwan Lucknauth, owner of Jade’s Wok, who told this newspaper that in addition to the measures put in place by the mall, his staff is equipped with the required personal protective equipment, and is adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols.
He said to help persons adhere to social distancing, foot markers are placed on the floor, and he has installed a glass shield, to separate staff from customers.
Lucknauth said the mall offers a more controlled environment to customers as opposed to stores in the city.
However, he said, “we all have to do our part; it will take some time.”
He noted that the traffic seen so far consists mainly of East Coast-based persons as many only have about an hour after work to get to their homes before the 6pm curfew.
The owner of TeamStoby, who asked not to be named, told this newspaper that it is an exciting feeling to be back out, and customers are excited to be at the mall, but at the same time precautionary measures are being practiced.
He said his staff members are using gloves and face masks and practicing the social distancing by staying the required six feet apart.
In addition, staff and customers are continuing to practice the washing of hands, and sanitising. A glass shield to protect both customers and staff will soon be installed, the owner said.
