The State Government has relaxed weekend shutdown in three cities for a few hours next Sunday for the 75th Independence Day celebrations. As per the order by the Office of Special Relief Commissioner (SRC), the weekend shutdown imposed in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri would be relaxed up to 11 am on August 15 allowing citizens to hoist the Tricolour at their premises.
The day would be celebrated in the three cities with 10 persons and strict adherence to Covid safety protocols such as social distancing, mask wearing and proper sanitisation. In other places of the State, the citizens would unfurl the National Flag at their premises subject to the condition that not more than 20 persons shall be congregated ay any place by following Covid-appropriate behaviour. The State-level and district-level functions for hoisting the National Flag shall be organised as per the circulars/guidelines issued by the Home Department.
However, the Government offices may celebrate the Independence Day with not more than 10 staff in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri and not more than 20 staffs in other places.
All other conditions contained in an order issued by the SRC on July 31 shall remain unchanged. The Government has lifted lockdown restrictions with effect from August 1 allowing all activities in the State. As per the Covid guidelines for the month of August, however, the weekend shutdown shall continue in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri till September 1.