To contained the spread of Covid-19 in the twin city, the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC) on Thursday issued guidelines for Christmas celebration, asking citizens to ring in the festival in a subdued manner.
MBMC Chief Dr Vijay Rathod issued specific directives for the celebration of Christmas in the twin city. “Maximum of 50 citizens are allowed to attend the prayers (masses) in church during Christmas. There should be no crowding in the church and social distancing norm is followed properly,” the list of guidelines said.
The advisory added that churches should be disinfected frequently. Citizens should use face masks and hand sanitisers on the premises, compulsorily. “Appropriate measures should be taken while handling things on decoration depicting the life of Jesus Christ and the Christmas Tree. There should be social distancing and cleanliness at the location,” it said.
The advisory added that the Choir should have a maximum of 10 singers at a time. Churches should provide separate microphones for each of them. They also have to maintain social distancing, it said. No shop or stall would be allowed outside the church.
Those above 60 years age and below 10 years age should not step out as a precautionary measure. The organisers should arrange online Masses for them, said Dr Rathod in the advisory. The advisory also asked citizens to avoid gathering in public places for celebration.
Guidelines for Christmas Celebration has also barred processions, religious or cultural functions. This has done to ensure no crowding takes place in the twin city. There should not be bursting of crackers and rules to check sound pollution should be followed.
On New Year eve
The Thanksgiving Mass should not be arranged at midnight on December 31. Instead, it should be held at 7 in the evening or before, the order said.
The MBVV Police has also imposed a night curfew from 11 pm to 6 am till January 5. Movement of the public is totally banned during the curfew hours, with the exception of those in emergency services. Vehicles providing essential services would continue to ply as usual during night curfew.
