Delhi government has banned the public celebration of Chhat Puja including in grounds, temples and river banks. The government allowed Ramlila and Durga Puja gatherings in districts with a positivity rate of 5% or below with permission from the district magistrates. A maximum of 50% of the hall capacity with a ceiling of 200 people is allowed in closed spaces.
An order issued by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) advised the public to celebrate Chhath pooja at their homes. The DDMA order stated that the COVID preventive measures in Delhi will continue till November 15.
“Chhath pooja celebration shall not be allowed in public places/public grounds/river banks, temples, etc in Delhi and public is advised to celebrate the same at their homes,” it stated. This comes after Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, earlier on Wednesday chaired the meeting of DDMA in wake of the upcoming festive season to prevent any resurgence of infection.
“All event organizers will have to obtain requisite permissions from the district magistrate (DM) concerned for organizing festival events, well in advance. No permission shall be granted by DMs or authorities for conducting any event in containment zones,” it added.
The DDMA clarified that no standing or squatting will be allowed at festive events and only sitting on chairs with social distancing will be permitted.
“It may be noted that restrictions on gatherings and large congregations imposed earlier are being relaxed only to the extent of allowing celebrations of upcoming festivals till November 15,” it added.
