Assam Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday announced that restaurants will be allowed to remain open only till 9pm during the Durga Puja celebrations in Assam in view of the Covid-19 situation.
During the press conference the health minister also announced some other important SOPs to be strictly followed during the Puja including-
- Puja committees will have to take permission from their respective Deputy Commissioners.
- The Puja committees will have to arrange an open pandal with two separate entry and exit doors.
- The Puja mandap will be closed down after 10pm.
- Cultural programmes and competitions are prohibited.
- Pillion riding will not be allowed. Women and children can ride but two men will not be allowed.
- Mass idol immersion will not be allowed.
- Committees will have to take prior permission from district administration for immersion.
The health minister said that the positivity rate of the state is gradually coming down. However, Durga Puja is going to be a huge challenge hence he urged the people to maintain the safety protocols even during the puja celebrations.
(Feature image source: Outlook India)
