BEFORE AND AFTER: Here is how world’s most crowded places look like after COVID-19 lockdown
One-third of the world's population is under lockdown as COVID-19.
Almost one-third of the world’s population is under lockdown as COVID-19 continues to impact countries, forcing them into imposing a lockdown.
These precautionary measures have emptied streets, slowed down the economic activity and disturbed travel. These before and after satellite images of some cities show how the outbreak has brought a change to everyday life.
Venice, Italy:
Italy is one of the hardest-struck countries worldwide, and the country with most cases in Europe. The lockdown, however, has benefitted Venice in numerous ways. The water is cleaner than it ever was, benefitting the marine life.
As the streets in the city have emptied, there is a drastic drop in water traffic and canals have been able to settle.
Before:
After:
Wuhan, China
The capital of China’s Hubei province, Wuhan was from where the virus first broke out. The city has been under lockdown for over two months and has just begun easing restrictions. So far, the country has reported 81,740 cases, a majority of which have recovered. Currently, China has 1,242 active cases.
Before:
After:
Disney World, Florida, the United States
The US currently has the highest number of cases, as the tally has crossed 300,000. Disney World is one of the US’s most visited spots and is often very crowded. However, it has been closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Before:
After:
The Shrine of Imam Reza (AS), Iran
Iran is the Middle East’s worst-hit country. It currently has over 60,000 cases. The shrine of Imam Reza (AS) usually attracts 20 million pilgrims annually but has been closed since March 17th due to the virus.
Before:
After:
Mecca, Saudi Arabia
The kingdom has so far reported 2,752 cases, with 38 deaths and 551 patients recovered. Saudi Arab authorities have asked Muslims to postpone their Hajj until the COVID-19 pandemic is brought under control. There are chances that the annual pilgrimage may be called off.
Saudi authorities have also suspended prayers at two main mosques in Mecca and Medina.
Before:
