Decision on reopening of temples soon: BMC Commissioner

Bhubaneswar: After Odisha Government today issued Unlock- 6.0 guidelines giving power to local administration for reopening  religious institutions across the state,  Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Prem Chandra Chaudhary said the decision on reopening of temples and other religious places will be taken soon.

Speaking to mediapersons, the BMC Commissioner said opinions of authorities of all religious institutions and general public will be taken for reopening of temples, mosques and churches.

“Though the number of positive cases in the state capital has dropped in the last couple of days, still over 100 cases are being reported everyday. In view of this, the decision on reopening of religious institutions will be taken,” said the senior official.

He further said, “School and Mass Education Department has been asked to prepare SOP for reopening of schools. Once the SOP comes in, we will take the course of action for Bhubaneswar.”

For marriages, 100 to 200 guests will now be allowed at Mandaps in Bhubaneswar. However,  they will have to follow the COVID-19 guidelines, Chaudhary added.

Stating that though cases of reinfection in Bhubaneswar are less, the infection may rise in coming days, the BMC Commissioner cautioned everyone to be careful and follow all the guidelines.