New Delhi: The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Thursday restricted public gatherings on the nights of December 31 and January 1 to contain the spread of coronavirus in the city. The restrictions were imposed to curb New Year celebrations where large numbers of people are expected to congregate for celebrations.
The night curbs will be in place between 11 pm and 6 am on both December 31 and January 1. Not more than five people will be allowed to gather at public places. There will be no New Year celebrations after 11 pm on both the days. However, traffic movement will be allowed.
“A detailed assessment of the situation in Delhi has been made and considering the threat posed by the mutant UK strain of Covid-19 virus and after observing the local incidents of the pandemic in GNCT, Delhi, it is apprehended that gatherings, congregations and public celebrations of New Year pose a considerable threat of spread of the virus and may cause setback to the appreciable gains made in the suppression of chain on transmission of Covid-19 cases in Delhi,” the order issued by the DDMA read.
Earlier on Monday, the Home Ministry had written to the states urging them to ensure strict vigil to check the spread of coronavirus. Mentioning the recent surge in coronavirus cases in Europe and America, the Ministry urged the states to exercise precautions.
