Strict norms in place for Hola Mohalla

Tribune News Service

Anandpur Sahib, March 9

Keeping in view the surge in Covid cases, the district administration has decided to implement strict guidelines for those attending the six-day Hola Mohalla festival, which begins from March 24 at Kiratpur Sahib and Anandpur Sahib.

Besides, the district administration would appeal to devotees to celebrate the festival only at the local level. Over two million people visit Kiratpur Sahib and Anandpur Sahib during the annual festival. Last year, panic gripped the region when Baldev Singh, a kirtani-cum-preacher, died of Covid after taking part in the Hola Mohalla event.

Ropar Deputy Commissioner Sonali Giri said while screening of all visitors would be done on entry points, it would be ensured that everyone wore a face mask all the time.

RT-PCR test would be mandatory for those who would come to stay at hotels, serais and tent city during festival, she said.

The Deputy Commissioner said the area would be divided into 11 sectors, where mobile testing teams would be deployed.

354 staff nurses get job letters

Chandigarh: Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu on Tuesday handed over appointment letters to 354 staff nurses and six pharmacy officials. The remaining candidates would get appointment letters soon, he said in a statement. Director, Health Services (Family Welfare), Dr Andesh Kang welcomed the newly appointed staff. TNS