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Bhubaneswar: Putting an end to speculations related to the observance of Khandagiri Mela this year, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Tuesday has finally decided to cancel it citing COVID guidelines.
After a barrage of meetings with all the stake holders, the civic body concluded that with the prevailing COVID-19 restrictions and the ongoing road construction work in the area, it will not be possible to hold the Mela that is observed with much fanfare each year on Magha Saptami.
In view of the existing COVID-19 pandemic, which has not subsided completely, a decision was taken to invite proposals from the Jatra Committees for holding the mela with strict adherence of COVID-19 protocol.
Some Jatra Committee submitted proposals and undertakings to abide by the COVID-19 safety protocols and suggested that they will erect Opera Pandals and stalls from Jagamara Melana field towards Khandagiri Hill and from Khandagiri Hill toilet to Sibananda School.
Interestingly, there was also a representation from an organisation urging the government to not allow observance of the Mela in view of the pandemic.
As per the office order, during the field review it was observed that due to the ongoing expansion work of NH-5, the road being used is extremely narrow and there will be serious traffic, law and order issue due to congregation of large number of people. It is also found that there is no space available to accommodate temporary erection of stalls.
"There is an apprehension that the maintenance of social distancing as per COVID-19 safety protocol will not be possible due to expected large congregation which will endanger public safety," the letter read.
(Edited By Pradeep Singh)
