Bhubaneswar: The state government on Tuesday issued an order prohibiting congregation at river ghats and near other water bodies to take bath or sail miniature boats on Kartik Purnima on November 30.
In an official order issued by the office of the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) stated that since the state is passing through a critical stage of COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to adhere to safety protocols to contain the spread of the virus.
It further said since a large number of people gather at river ghats and the banks of water bodies to take bath and sail miniature boats on the morning of Kartik Purnima, there is possibility of the spread of the pandemic.
Considering these factors, congregation at river ghats and near water bodies on the Kartik Purnima, conduct of Bali Yatra on the occasion or on the days following and all other congregations relating to Kartika Purnima & Bada Osha will remain prohibited throughout the State, the order stated.
Any person found violating the order will be punished under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other relevant laws, it added.