Undergo RT-PCR test on return: DDMA advises Delhiites visiting Kumbh
Delhi residents visiting the Kumbh Mela in Haridwar have been advised to undergo an RT-PCR test for COVID-19 on their return and self-monitor their health. In an advisory, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has asked people attending the congregation to take extra precautions and follow COVID-19-related instructions issued by authorities. Here are more details.
All residents should take extra precautions: DDMA
"A sizeable number of pilgrims from Delhi are expected to visit the Mela beginning on April 1," the DDMA said. "As advised by Uttarakhand Government in view of COVID-19 pandemic, all the residents of Delhi are required to take extra precautions during their visit to Kumbh Mela in Haridwar," the advisory stated.
Pilgrims advised to follow SOP issued by the Health Ministry
Pilgrims from Delhi have been advised to strictly follow the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for managing the COVID-19 pandemic during the Kumbh Mela as well as all relevant instructions issued by the Uttarakhand Government.
Pilgrims should have negative RT-PCR report to enter the Mela
The SOP prescribes that all the visitors to Kumbh must produce a health certificate issued by a competent authority, which is a mandatory requirement for entering the Kumbh Mela area. It said that the pilgrims are required to mandatorily produce a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test report, not older than 72 hours prior to the date of visit, at time of entry to the Mela.
Aarogya Setu app mandatory for pilgrims
"All the persons are also advised to get COVID-19 RT-PCR test done after returning from Kumbh Mela and actively self-monitor their health as per prevailing health protocol prescribed by the government," the SOP said. "All the visitors should mandatorily register on the Uttarakhand Government portal prior to their visit and will install and use Aarogya Setu app at all times," according to the SOP.
People above 65 years advised not to visit Mela
People above the age of 65, children below the age of 10, and those with comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, cardiac, pulmonary, and kidney ailments, among others have been advised not to visit the Mela. "The pilgrims must take other precautions such as wearing face masks, frequent hand washing, and maintaining a physical distance of six feet with one another," it said.
