Odisha Govt Announces Unlock Measures For March But No ‘Holi’ Celebrations In Public

Bhubaneswar: Announcing the COVID guidelines for March, the Odisha government on Monday barred public celebration of ‘Holi’ across the state, including roads.

People can, however, celebrate the festival of colours with family members at home. District Collectors and Municipal Commissioners have been directed to impose any further restrictions as desirable considering local situations, the notification issued by the office of Special Relief Commissioner said.

It further mentioned that the ‘Mahashivaratri’ festival will be celebrated in accordance with the directive issued by the Revenue and Disaster Management Department on February 25.  People have also been directed to ensure COVID appropriate behaviour such as physical distancing, use of face mask and covering and handwashing and hand sanitiser during Dola Purnima.

Stating that the February 18 decision to do away with night curfew will continue in March, the government said that there will be graded unlocking throughout the state from 5 am and all activities are allowed to be fully functional with strict adherence to the COVID -19 protocols.

GUIDELINES

>> AII social/religious/political/sports gatherings

>> Exhibitions/Trade Fairs/Expo/Melas

“District Magistrates/ Municipal Commissioners/ Police Commissioner, Bhubaneswar- Cuttack will determine the number of participants at such gatherings. Wearing of masks, maintaining social distancing and provision Of thermal scanning and use of hand wash or sanitiser is mandatory,” the notification issued by the office of Special Relief Commissioner said.

>> Weddings, thread ceremonies and related gatherings with approval from local authorities will be allowed with a ceiling of 500 persons (for the entire event), including hosts, guests, priests and catering and other support staff.  Hundred people can participate in marriage processions.

>> Funerals, last rites and related gatherings with approval from local authorities will be allowed with a ceiling of 250 persons.

GENERAL DIRECTIVE

>> Face coverings/ Masks: Wearing face cover/mask properly is compulsory at public places, workplaces and public transport.

>> Physical distancing: Individuals must maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet at public places.

>> Spitting at public places will be punishable with a fine, as prescribed in accordance with laws, rules or regulations.

>> Consumption of paan, gutka, tobacco, and similar products prohibited at public places.