Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases are increasing again across Maharashtra and this has raised concerns for the government as the state is ready to celebrate the much-awaited Ganeshotsav 2021, this year again in a simple manner. On the other hand, experts have warned about the possibility of the third COVID wave. Keeping these aspects in mind, officials have been discussing ways to control the spread and reimpose restrictions across Maharashtra which would help in controlling the crowd and further spread of COVID.
Reports state that the cases in Maharashtra might increase post September 15, 2021, as several activities would resume in the state during the festivities. Moreover, there is a possibility for the public to step out in the markets during the same. The government has permitted local trains for the general public and the number of passengers have also increased significantly. On the other hand, the commuters might also significantly rise considering Ganesh Chaturthi 2021, though the public celebrations and activities have been banned this year too.
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A report published in the Hindustan Times said that Minister Aslam Shaikh confirmed that the cases rose at the same time during 2020, and the same trend could be observed this year as well. However, there is no need to implement the restrictions immediately. He added that the citizens need to follow COVID-19 guidelines strictly as that would help in containing the spread of the infection.
Strict directives have been given by the Chief minister Uddhav Thackeray to the concerned departments asking them to take necessary steps and keep a check regarding the same. Discussions are held regularly with the COVID task force to understand the situation and take measures appropriately. Officials stated that similar trend was observed in Kerala during Onam.
The state health department has informed that the third COVID wave is likely to affect the children below the age of 18 years. Over the last few weeks, COVID-19 cases among children have seen a rise in the state and considering the same, the government is working towards improving healthcare facilities for their treatment in all districts. Paediatric wards have been set up by consulting concerned specialists, and the arrangement of oxygen is also being done efficiently to ensure enough supply is available as needed.
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Earlier in August 2021, the state government released the guidelines for Ganeshotsav 2021. CM Uddhav Thackeray said that the celebrations should be in held in a simple manner and the public activities will not be permitted keeping the pandemic in mind. Moreover, associations can offer online darshan and services for the devotees. A four-feet idol will only be permitted at pandals across Maharashtra, while the idols for domestic festivities will have to be no more than two-feet. Associations are encouraged to conduct blood donation camps, awareness programs etc. as well.
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