While the corona spread in the state seems to be slowing down, a second wave can not be ruled out, especially with Durga Puja and upcoming festive season. Taking view of this, the Health Department has written a letter to all DCs of the state and directed them to take further precautionary measures in addition to the guidelines issued earlier. The letter issued by NHM’s campaign director Ravi Shankar Shukla states that along with the SOP (Standard Operative Procedure) issued by the Ministry of Health, Government of India, several other measures are also necessary.
All DCs have been asked to ensure testing of food items in their respective districts and take strict action against those who violate the Food Security Act. Along with this, instructions have also been given to increase testing at the places of worship, to allow limited amount of people to visit inside the pandals and to campaign for public awareness. All DCs have also been asked to monitor the Corona infection prevention campaign personally. SOP states that if possible, recorded devotional music or songs should be played and live singing groups should not be allowed. All places at program sites should have appropriate markings and strictly adhere to social distancing. Only employees and visitors who do not have any signs of infection should be allowed.
According to the SOP, visitors will be allowed entry only if they are wearing masks. A minimum distance of six feet will need to be followed at all times. Programmes should be planned in such a way that the crowd can be controlled and safe social distance can be followed. The number of people in rallies and immersion processions should not exceed prescribed limit and social distance and wearing of masks should be ensured. Apart from this, emphasis has also been placed on thermal screening. Close-circuit cameras may be considered to monitor social distancing, and adherence to masks.
