A nation-wide circuit breaker has been put in effect since April 7, 2020, in efforts to curb the Covid-19 viral outbreak in Singapore.
Carousell issues advisories against meeting in person
On April 21, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced that the circuit breaker will be extended from May 4 to June 1, 2020.
During the circuit breaker period, elevated safe distancing measures have been imposed, such as the ban of any form of social gatherings.
Online marketplace Carousell has issued in-app advisories for users to refrain from physical meet-ups for their transactions.
"Meet-ups and self collections are not allowed, and we ask our users to opt for mailing and contactless delivery options during this period," a spokesperson from Carousell told Mothership.
For sellers, an alert has been placed below the "Meet-up" option when putting up a listing, with alternatives for sellers to arrange for contactless delivery services.
Photo courtesy of Carousell
Buyers have also been advised to ask their seller to arrange for delivery, and to stay at home instead of meeting the other party in person.
Carousell users not complying?
While the advisories have been put in place, the option for "Meet-up" appears to still be used by sellers when putting up listings.
Several recently-posted listings on Carousell continue to reflect sellers' preferred meet-up locations.
Screenshot via Carousell
While some include delivery options, a number of listings reflect only meet-up options for buyers.
All listings above were put up after April 21.
People found flouting circuit breaker rules will be fined
People should only go outside for the purchase of daily necessities, essential services, or urgent medical needs, said Health Minister Gan Kim Yong in Parliament on April 7.
Those who are caught flouting circuit breaker rules will be fined S$300 for their first offence, while repeat offenders will be fined S$1,000 or face prosecution in court for some cases.
As of April 21, the circuit breaker period will end on June 1, 2020.
Top image via Carousell