Facemasks, social distancing made mandatory on Eid

The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) issued new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Eidul Azha, in the wake of recent spurt in the coronavirus infection across the country.

The Eid guidelines mark a return of facemasks and social distancing protocol on the joyous occasion, which would be celebrated for three days from Sunday. The forum encouraged people to opt for collective Qurbani and ensure the implementation of precautionary measures.

The country witnessed increase in Covid cases last week. On Tuesday, the National Institute of Health (NIH) reported 653 fresh cases in the last 24 hours. The positivity ratio stood at 3.45%, according to the official data.

“It has been advised to undertake minimal necessary travel during Eid holidays as the risk of a new wave was imminent,” the NCOC said, asking the masses to take every precaution prevent the pandemic spread.

The guidelines said that Eid prayers should be organised in open spaces with staggered timings – in 2-3 shifts at one venue – to minimise attendance. The guidelines proposed multiple entry and exit points at the prayer venue to avoid rush of people.

The NCOC call for keeping the Eid sermon (Khutba) very brief in order to reduce exposure; discouraging sick, elderly, and children under 15-years of age from attending the prayers; and ensuring the availability and use of hand sanitisers at entrances and exits.

The people had been advised to bring their own prayer mats and perform wazoo [ablution] at home. Wearing of face mask had been made mandatory, along with 6-foot social distancing markings at the venue.

The people had been discouraged from socialising and handshakes at the venue after the Eid prayers. People had been advised to avoid gatherings and follow the NCOC guidelines while distributing the sacrificial meat.