Dozens protest as Rio enters a ten-day lockdown

Dozens protested in Copacabana Beach against the new restriction measures adopted on Friday in Rio de Janeiro, which will impose a ten-day lockdown on shops, restaurants, bars, and other businesses.

Authorities changed the Easter holidays schedule, now starting March 26, to make a longer lockdown in an attempt to reduce the number of commuters.

Last Wednesday, the mayor announced a credit line for small entrepreneurs, emergency aid to low-income families, and financial aid to pay small business employees as many won't be able to open.

Protesters called the help "charity," saying that what they actually want is work.

Rio de Janeiro's streets were not as quiet as the first lockdown in March 2020 but less crowded than recent weeks.

In the city center, where most businesses are affected by the mayor's decree, whole streets were empty. Few passersby walked in the Carioca Plaza, populated by thousands on a regular weekday.

COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and death registrations keep rising in the city. In Rio de Janeiro state, 18 municipalities reached a total ICU occupancy for COVID-19 treatment.