MUMBAI: The BMC on Friday issued orders that all places of worship and religious places in the city can only allow devotees up to 50% of the total capacity.
With Covid-19 cases plateauing in the state, last week the Maharashtra government had announced reopening of all places of worship from October 7, the first day of Navratri. Chief minister Uddhav Thackeray said all places of worship will open for devotees, but they will have to follow strict safety protocols. In the first wave, the state had reopened temples in November after Diwali, and within five months, they were shut when the second wave hit in April.
“Based on the state government’s orders, all places of worship and religious places in the BMC area can allow only 50% devotees and all Covid-19 protocols must be followed,” said an order issued by BMC chief Iqbal Chahal on Friday.
According to the state government’s standard operating procedure, maintaining social distance and masking will be a must, and no prasad or holy water is to be served inside. The state has said staggering of visitors and slots should be fixed based on the size of the premises. Frequently sanitising the premises and no touching of idols and holy books is also mentioned. Religious events and congregations have still not been allowed. Common prayer mats should be avoided, people should get their own mats.
