Weekend shutdown relaxed in 3 Odisha towns on Independence Day

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Government relaxed weekend shutdown in three towns for a few hours next Sunday for the 75th Independence Day celebrations.

As per the order by the Office of Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) yesterday, the weekend shutdown imposed in Twin City — Bhubaneswar and Cuttack — and Puri town will be relaxed upto 11.00 AM on August 15 allowing citizens to hoist the Tricolour at their premises.

The Independence Day will be celebrated in above three towns with 10 persons and strict adherence to COVID safety protocols such as social distancing, wearing masks and proper sanitisation.

In other places (except Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri towns), the citizens will unfurl the National Flag at their premises subject to condition that not more than 20 persons shall be congregated ay any place by following COVID appropriate behaviour.

The State level/District level functions for hoisting of National Flag shall be organised as per circulars/guidelines issued by the State Home Department.

However, the Government offices may celebrate the Independence Day with not more than 10 staff in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri towns and not more than 20 staff in other places of the State.

All other conditions contained in an order issued by the SRC dated July 31 shall remain unchanged.

With decline in COVID-19 TPR, Odisha Government lifted lockdown restrictions with effect from August 1 allowing all activities in the State.

As per the COVID-19 guidelines for the month of August, 2021, however, the weekend shutdown will continue in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri towns till September 1.