Eidgahs to screen all entering worshippers

HYDERABAD:

In order to contain the spread of coronavirus, the district administration issued standard operating procedures (SOPs) for congregational Eidul Fitr prayers.

Strict precautionary measures, including wearing of masks and maintaining social distance, would be mandatory.

According to the guidelines issued by the Government of Pakistan’s National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), Eidul Fitr prayers should be organised in open spaces under stringent Covid-19 protocols. In case of any compulsions to offer prayers inside, windows and doors should be kept open for ventilation and to minimise the chances of disease spread,a statement said.

Strictly comply with Covid-19 SOPs on Eid: Fawad

The district administration also suggested organising two or three congregations at different times to allow the maximum number of people to offer prayers with Covid-19 protocols.

The ulema leading Eid prayers have been sensitised to keep sermons and speeches short so that people remain present at the prayer venue for a brief duration of time.

According to guidelines, efforts should be made to discourage sick, elderly and young children below 15 years of age from attending Eid prayers. Under no circumstances would people be allowed to enter the prayer venue without a facemask. All prayer venues (Eidgahs) should have multiple entry and exit points to prevent disease transmission.

Each individual entering the prayer venue would be checked through thermal screening at the entry points and asymptomatic individuals would not be allowed to enter.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 13^th, 2021.