Silchar Among Three Assam Cities to Get 24×7 Market Operations: CM Sarma

In a significant move, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that markets in Silchar, Dibrugarh, and Guwahati will now operate 24×7 without any off days. The decision, made during a cabinet meeting, aims to boost employment and increase the earnings of small business owners.

Speaking to the media on 20 March after the Dibrugarh cabinet meeting, the CM revealed that shops and markets in the three municipal corporation will function round the clock, seven days a week.

To ensure smooth operations, three distinct shifts of eight hours each will be mandatory, with separate employees for every shift. Sarma explained that this structure would not only help businesses generate more revenue but also create new job opportunities in the retail and service sectors.

While the three cities will have 24-hour operations, other towns across Assam will be permitted to keep their businesses open until 2 AM, with the same multi-shift system. Shops in villages will be allowed to function until 11 PM every day.

However, the CM clarified that despite the extended working hours, employees cannot be overworked. Each worker is capped at 48 hours per week, with a daily limit of nine consecutive hours. Although a weekly day off was not explicitly mentioned, the structure suggests that employees would receive at least one rest day.

Addressing the media, Sarma stated, “We have taken this decision aiming to increase employment as well as the earnings of small business owners. This will also benefit businesses ahead of major festivals like Bihu and Durga Puja.”

This bold move is expected to transform Assam’s retail and market landscape, ensuring round-the-clock availability of goods and services. However, how this impacts small businesses, worker welfare, and the overall economy remains to be seen.