PHIs urge strict adherence to rules on social gatherings

Health officials tasked with curbing the spread of Covid- 19 pandemic warn there will be strict monitoring of social gatherings to ensure that restrictions on serving liquor, group photographs and playing fast- beat pop songs are followed to the letter.

The Public Health Inspectors (PHI) Union said the ban on serving liquor at social gatherings and wedding receptions would be strictly imposed as people forget the rule of social distancing when intoxicated.

Union Secretary M. Balasooriya said that in their inebriated state, people were likely to misbehave and if there was music there would be dancing in crowded floors. Such conduct could increase the chances of the spread of the Covid virus.

However, he said classical music evnts would be allowed. “Most importantly, the area PHI has to be consulted before arranging the event. Covid- 19 health regulations allow only 50 invitees for a function, no matter how large the venue is. For smaller venues, the crowd should be half the capacity of the hall,” he said.

He pointed out that the health guidelines recommend that wedding photographs with the bride and the groom should be restricted to family members while maintaining the required physical distance of one metre.

While weddings in churches and Hindu kovils will be governed by the restrictions imposed by respective religious organisations, receptions and home-comings have to be held in keeping with the strict regulations outlined by the health authorities.

Buddhist and Muslim weddings whether they are held at homes, hotels or reception halls should also be held in accordance with the guidelines.

At any wedding reception or event, there should be no hugging or kissing when wishing the couple. The guidelines say guests should not be allowed near the Poruwa where the couple stand. Also only four people can be in the choir singing the Jaya Mangala Gatha. There will be no buffets and food will be served on plates covered with lunch sheets. Cutlery and glasses should be provided separately to each guest.

The guidelines do not permit Muslims to serve meals in their traditional savans ( a large plate where around five to seven guests share food), but the food has to be served in separate plates by the reception hall staff assigned for the purpose or a some one appointed for the task.

The guidelines also insist on guests at social gathering wearing faces masks, washing hands with soap and proper disposal of garbage.