GUWAHATI: The Assam government has issued new COVID-19 protocols to be followed during the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.
Announcing the same, health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma pointed out a few important rules issued.
As per the Durga Puja celebration guidelines, puja committees are to construct pandals that are open on all sides with different entry and exit gates.
Further, all puja committees are to take permission from the Deputy Commissioner mandatorily. Pandals are to be closed for people at 10 pm strictly.
All committee members, volunteers, priests and other people directly associated with the puja are to mandatorily get a Covid test one day prior to puja, which is on the day of Panchami, and then again a day after Dashami to ensure they are not infected. District administrations have been asked to keep a check on the same.
Only ‘aarti’ is allowed, but there will be no cultural functions, competitions.
Mass immersion of idols are not allowed; district administrations are asked to facilitate the immersion process over two to three days to avoid crowding. Also, processions are not allowed.
Pillion riding for males is not allowed during the three days of puja. However, women and children are permitted.
Lastly, restaurants are to close the shop by 9 pm during the days of Durga Puja.
“I can assure that the Covid-19 curve is gradually flattening in Assam. If people keep vigilant during the days of the puja, things will get better hopefully,” said Himanta Biswa Sarma.