Now that there are no tourists in Venice, the gondolas are being used for other purposes. Considering the fact that the older generation is at a higher risk of getting affected by the virus, coming out of homes to do necessary shopping gets more dangerous for them. To make things easier, a number of support groups and grocery delivery services have been introduced worldwide.
In Venice too, an all-female non-profit organisation called Row Venice has come up to deliver food to the elderly and for families who cannot shop. These gondoliers, all women, row along the Venice canals and deliver organic supplies to those who need them the most. Not only this, but these rowers are also acting as a bridge between people and farmhouses based outside of Venice.
These bravehearts can be seen wearing their protective shields (masks and gloves), navigating their way through winding canals and taking orders from people. They collect request and bring groceries to doorstep.
It is almost unbelievable to see Venice in such a condition. The beautiful city that was fighting over-tourism (till just a few months back) is now fighting to keep its people alive. The only silver lining is that the waters of the canal are sparkling clean and marine life has been thriving.
Till now, Italy has reported 197,675 positive COVID-19 cases and 26,644 deaths (one of the highest in the world).
