Covid-19 Resurgence: BMC Issues Guidelines For 'Dola Melana'

Bhubaneswar: A day after the Odisha Government imposed restrictions on celebration of Holi and Dola Melana in Public places, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) today issued guidelines for the same in its jurisdiction.

In view of a spike in fresh covid-19 cases, the civic body has restricted large gathering while taking out palanquin (Dola Biman) carrying idols of Lord Krishan and Devi Radha.

"We have restricted number of people in the Melana. A maximum of six persons will be allowed to carry palanquin while maximum 60 people can congregate at one point. We have decided to allow palanquin to go on a rotation basis so that large congregation can be avoided. Respective committee will apprise us about the number of people to participate in the ‘Melana’, BMC Commissioner Prem Chandra Choudhury said.

Holi celebration in public places has also been restricted. All related rituals will be performed at temples amid strict adherence to Covid-19 guidelines, he added.

However, shops are allowed to open on the day of Holi and Dola.

On Friday, the Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) in an order said, “Holi on March 28 and March 29 and related rituals shall not be observed in public places throughout the state.”

People may celebrate Holi with family members in their houses but not in any public places including public roads, SRC P K Jena said in the order.