Bhubaneswar: Keeping the surge of COVID-19 cases in the twin city in view, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation Monday issued fresh guidelines for Holi and Dola Purnima festivals.
While the State government has already issued restrictions on celebration of Holi and Dola Purnima, the BMC has come up with some stipulations and restrictions that are only applicable in areas coming under the BMC limits.
According to the additional restrictions, a maximum of six persons will be allowed for the ritual of ‘Dola Jatra’. However there shall be no procession and playing of sound instruments which are likely to attract the attention of public and cause congregation.
The persons carrying idols need to wear face mask appropriately as far as practicable.
The organisers will ensure that maximum 50 to 60 persons are present at any point of time at the ‘Dola Melan Padia’ with strict adherence of COVID appropriate behaviour like maintenance of social distancing of six feet and wearing of face masks.
There shall be no Jatra/Orchestra/Meena Bazar or any kind of celebrations in the Dola Melan
The organisers shall have to obtain written permissions from BMC to conduct the functions.
For obtaining permissions, the following details are to be submitted:
- Details of organisers including place of function.
- of idols proposed for the Dola Melan Padia.
- of devotees expected to attend the Dola Melan Padia.
- The religious rituals may be performed inside the temple with adherence to COVID norms.
- No devotees shall be allowed inside temples.
PNN