In a bid to ensure that the COVID19 outbreak doesn’t intensify in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has banned gatherings for the Chhat celebrations at public places and river banks. The festival, which most popular amongst people hailing from Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh, falls on November 10.
“Fairs, melas, food stalls, jhoolas, rallies and processions will not be permitted during festivals in Delhi. Chhat pooja celebration shall not be allowed in public places and people are advised to celebrate the same at their homes,” the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) stated in an official order.
“All event organsiers will have to obtain requisite permissions from the district magistrate (DM) concerned for organising festival events, well in advance. No permission shall be granted by DMs or authorities for conducting any event in containment zones,” it added.
The disaster management agency also specified that standing or squatting shall not be allowed in festive events
The DDMA clarified that no standing or squatting will be allowed at festive events (in private spaces) and only sitting on chairs with strict adherence to physical distancing is to be followed.
Explained: Why WHO revised guidelines for air quality — its implications for India
