Rajendra Prasad Mohapatra

In view of the surge in infections due to the Omicron variant of Covid-19, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Saturday decided to cancel the famous Khandagiri Mela in the Capital City this year too.

The fair was also cancelled last year on account of the pandemic situation and the construction of a road in the vicinity of the Mela venue.
Sources in the BMC said that the famous fair has been cancelled this year due to the existing Covid-19 restrictions meant for putting curbs on mass gatherings. Jatras performed by several troupes during the Mela is likely to be called off this year as well.

“In view of the existing Covid-19 pandemic, which has not subsided completely, it will not be possible to hold the Mela that is observed with much fanfare every year on Magha Saptami,” said BMC Additional Commissioner Laxmikant Sethy.

“The maintainability of social distance as per Covid-19 safety protocol will not be possible due to expected large congregations which will endanger public safety. Hence, we request the people of Bhubaneswar to cooperate with the administration and adhere to all the Covid-19 guidelines including social distancing for the safety of the citizens,” said Sethy.
 

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