Gurugram Bans Diwali Events In Containment Zones To Combat Rise In COVID-19 Cases

by Suchismita Pal
Gurugram Bans Diwali Events In Containment Zones To Combat Rise In COVID-19 Cases

After noticing a rapid hike in the COVID-19 cases, the Gurugram authorities have decided not to allow Diwali events in the containment zones this year. The Gurgaon district health department has put out an advisory of November 3, expecting huge crowds for worship, fairs and other festival functions. The advisory has put a ban on “pooja or any festivity event” in the containment zones. It has also directed people not to move out of homes unless absolutely necessary. Gurugram has recorded the maximum number of cases in October, taking the coronavirus tally in the region to around 30, 541. Also, Delhi has also allowed the use of only ‘eco-friendly’ green crackers for Diwali.

Gurugram Bans Events In Containment Zones

Gurugram has banned pooja, fair and other Diwali events to the containment zones this year to combat the spread of COVID-19. The city’s health department has issued an advisory urging people to stay at homes unless it is absolutely necessary to step out. It has also strictly instructed elderly people above 60 years of age with comorbidities, children below 10 years and pregnant women not to move out. The advisory has emphasised on the social distancing protocols that people need to follow during the celebrations, Events must have staggered timings and restricted entries. Volunteers must ensure thermal scanning, wearing of masks and social distancing. Installation of closed-circuit cameras will take place  ‘to monitor compliance of physical distance norms and the wearing of mask in crowded places’. Meanwhile, Rajasthan has banned the sale and use of firecrackers this year.

Gurugram Bans Diwali Events
Picture Credits: DW

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Places Of Celebration To Have Separate Entry And Exit, Along With Thermal Screening Facilities

The advisory by the health department states the following:

  • Separate entry and exit must be there for the events.
  • Entrances need to have hand hygiene thermal scanning facilities.
  • Wearing of masks is mandatory.
  • No symptomatic person can enter in public places.
  • Effective disinfection of surfaces must take place.
  • Touch practices won’t be permitted in religious places.
  • Individuals need to maintain a minimum of 6 feet distance in public places.
Gurugram Bans Diwali Events
Picture Credits: Associated Press

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Reportedly, referring to the current situation, Deputy Commissioner Amit Khatri has said, “People must be extra cautious given the changing weather as well as the festive season. The danger of Coronavirus has neither been eliminated nor reduced yet, so it is crucial that we take all precautions against the Coronavirus infection and are cautious.” Even if you’re celebrating Diwali, ensure to follow all the precautionary measures, as safety always comes first. Meanwhile, did you know about Virat Kohli’s favourite Chole Bhature spot in Gurugram?