Odisha govt allows operas & open air theatres

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha government has allowed holding of operas and shows in open air theatres subject to a ceiling of 2,000 persons, in its March guideline issued to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the state. The government has also allowed social congregations on the occasion of marriage and funeral with a maximum of 500 persons with adherence to the COVID-19 safety measures. The local authorities will verify whether the COVID safety measures are being followed.

Seeking permission of the local authorities will be mandatory for organizers to hold marriage, large gatherings, social, and religious functions and jatra shows, the order issued by the Special Relief Commissioner said.

Also, District Collectors and Municipal Commissioners were directed to demarcate the containment zones in accordance with the guidelines of MoHFW, Government of India and H&FW Department of the Government of Odisha.

The SRC office issued the detailed guidelines for the month of March where it is mentioned that the Containment Zones will be notified by the respective District Collectors/ Municipal Commissioners and information will be shared with MOHFW. The notification shall be uploaded by the District Collector and by the state on their websites.

Awareness shall be created in communities on COVID-19 appropriate behaviour. Wearing of masks, maintaining social distancing and provision of thermal scanning and use of hand wash or sanitizer will be mandatory, the order said.

While all the medical colleges have been allowed to reopen with effect from December 2, 2020, the authorities are directed to follow all the SOPs and guidelines with respect to social distancing and prevention of spread of epidemic issued by the Central and state government, scrupulously.