Mahashivratri: Odisha Collectors to take call on congregation

Sambad English Bureau Published On : Mar 9, 2021 at 12:14 PM Updated On : Mar 9, 2021 at 12:14 PM

Devotees waiting in queue on Mahashivratri Picture courtesy: Facebook/ The Incredible Old Town

Bhubaneswar: In view of the spike in COVID-19 cases in different states across the country, Odisha Government seems to be taking no chance for resurgence of the virus as it has directed district Collectors to take a call on congregation for Mahashivratri on March 11.

Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) Pradeep Jena today a wrote a letter to all Collectors and Municipal Commissioners in this regard.

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“As large congregation on the occasion of Mahashivratri has large potential of spreading COVID-19 infections, Collectors and Municipal Commissioners may restrict congregations/ gatherings to such number as may be felt appropriate considering the situation there and space available within such temples and its premises to gather, strictly adhering to the COVID-19 protocols,” the SRC said in the letter.

He also said that Mela/ congregations outside, within the temple premises may also be reasonably restricted so as to avoid mass gatherings.

“Any person found violating this order shall be punishable under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act, 2005 and other relevant laws,” the official cautioned.

Mahashivratri Mahashivratri in Odisha