Fresh COVID-19 guidelines issued as Kumbh mela kicks off in Haridwar

The Uttarakhand government has issued the new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to contain the spread of the virus during Kumbh Mela in Haridwar this year. Kumbh Mela, the duration of which was curtailed to just one month for the first time in its history due to Covid-19, began on April 1. The congregation on the banks of the Ganges in Haridwar will conclude on April 30 with three "shahi snan" (major bathing) dates on April 12, 14 and 27.

New guidelines

The Uttarakhand government on Thursday issued the modified SOP for the 2021 Haridwar Kumbh Mela. The fresh SOP was announced after people were found violating Covid-19 safety protocols. "From April 1-30, SOPs will have to be followed strictly. Documents will be verified at entry points for outsiders. No such requirement is needed for locals," a senior police officer said.

Face masks, social distancing, RT-PCR negative certificate

Anyone visiting the state of Uttarakhand has to carry an RT-PCR negative certificate. This is mandatory. All visitors will have to follow social distancing and wear masks in public places at all times.

COVID testing booths at entry points of Uttarakhand

All entry points of Uttarakhand have Covid-19 testing booths. At the Narsan border, a testing booth has been set up. All crossing the border will have to get tested for Covid-19.

Show RT-PCR negative test report or go through one

At the Haridwar railway station, all arriving passengers will be asked to show an RT-PCR negative test report or go through mandatory RT-PCR testing by the health department. Sanitiser dispensers have been placed across Har ki Paudi in Haridwar.

Special COVID isolation centres

Special Covid-19 isolation centres have been set up. Testing facility has been set up at the Jolly Grant airport.

Kumbh Mela, 2010

A massive crowd is expected in Haridwar on April 12 when the first 'shahi snan' of Mahakumbh takes place. Held once in 12 years, the congregation usually lasts around three-and-a-half months. Its last edition was held in Haridwar from January 14 to April 28 in 2010.