300 people allowed in public functions held in open spaces and 150 people in closed spaces, government eases Covid curbs

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: CM Vijayan has announced more relaxations on Covid curbs in the state. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that a maximum of 300 people will be allowed for public functions held in open spaces and a maximum of 150 people will be allowed for events held in closed spaces like halls. The CM made the announcement after the weekly Covid review meeting.

At the same time, the CM said that the opening of schools with full strength is not under consideration as of now. Action should be taken to provide immediate health care to children arriving at schools who show symptoms of Covid. The CM also said that there should be a general understanding among teachers about post-Covid ailments.

Permission has also been granted to perform ceremonial art forms related to the festivals. The current level of permission for weddings and posthumous ceremonies will remain at a maximum of 200 in open spaces and a maximum of 100 in closed spaces. The number of people allowed should be proportional to the space available. Though some concessions were given in Sabarimala yesterday, the Chief Minister suggested in the meeting that there should be no lack of vigilance.

During the review meeting, Chief Minister directed the district collectors concerned to pay special attention to increase the vaccination rate in Palakkad, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts. In the state, 97 percent have received the first dose and 70 percent the second dose. 70 lakh people are yet to receive the second dose. The Chief Minister directed the Health Department to complete it as soon as possible. Owing to the Omicron cases, clusters should be found. Genetic sequencing should be increased there. In Ernakulam, all the 36 people who came in contact with the Omicron positive patient are in isolation. It is mandatory to wear a mask outside the house. The Chief Minister also requested the people to wear three-layer N95 masks and directed the district collectors to complete the Covid aid in a timely manner.