In view of rapid spread of coronavirus, State Government on Monday announced weekend (Saturday and Sunday) shutdown in all urban areas beginning on April 24. The Government also revised its guidelines, under which Jatras, opera and open air theatres are banned. The restriction would take effect from April 21 and remain till May 15. Special relief Commissioner Pradeep Jena also said all Anganwadi Centres would be closed. Marriage and funeral organisers would have to mandatorily submit list of participants to local authorities for necessary permission 24 hours before events. The present cap of 50 attendees at weddings would continue. However, all essential services including hospitals, medicine stores would continue functioning.
“District offices, municipality offices, police stations, fire services centres, all other offices of State & Centre providing emergency services would remain open. Petrol pumps, telecom, water supply, electric supply, grocery shops, milk booths and newspaper stalls will also remain open,” said Jena.