AHMEDABAD: As the countdown for the 144th Rath Yatra started on Thursday with a nod by the state government, the experts advice utmost caution while carrying out the grand procession.
Senior AMC officials said that among the active Covid-19 positive cases in the city, the majority are in the western city parts. “In fact, compared to the first wave where several of the areas such as Jamalpur, Shahpur, Dariapur and Saraspur were among the most affected, the second wave had more concentration in western city parts,” said the official.
But sources added that several of the areas on the route have vaccination percentage less than the city’s average. “There are several reasons for the reticence, but the vaccination is yet to pick up,” said an official.
A senior epidemiologist told TOI on condition of anonymity that the curfew is a bit difficult to impose. “Many spectators might try to get a glimpse and can gather even in private buildings if not on roads. We hope that the event doesn’t result in spike in cases,” said the expert.
.png?w=600)
