Amidst the rising COVID-19 cases in the city, as well as the threat of the new variant, Omicron, year-end festivities are expected to be on the down-low in Maharashtra and Mumbai. On Thursday, December 23, the state government proclaimed guidelines that constituted an urge for simple celebrations without crowding, reports stated.
Churches will be open to only 50 per cent of the total capacity. The government has requested citizens to avoid large gatherings, and asked that sanitization, social distancing norms must be followed. Apart from this, they have also asked that a smaller number of singers be there in church choirs.
Moreover, it is compulsory to avoid crowding at churches, particularly near Christmas trees and displays. There is also a prohibition to have any stalls outside churches. The authorities have asked that one must refrain from organizing programs and rallies that will result in crowds. The utilization of firecrackers has been disallowed.
These guidelines come in the aftermath of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) making regulations that people up to 50 per cent capacity are permitted in closed spaces and 25 per cent in open spaces.
The civic body has also emphasized the need to maintain six feet social distancing and COVID-19 appropriate behaviour. With the looming threat of the new variant and surge in cases, these restrictions have been brought into force.
Additionally, ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Commissioner said that anyone found violating the Maharashtra government's guidelines will be booked under Section 188 of IPC, reported news agency ANI.
Also Read: Omicron Scare: "If You Don't Want A Lockdown Again...," Dy CM Ajit Pawar
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