NCOC issues SOPs for Muharram majalis, processions

Islamabad: The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has issued the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to contain the spread of coronavirus in majalis and processions during the month of Muharram.

The new directions come as the country lost another seven people to the pandemic virus and struggles with rising positivity ratio.

In a statement issued on Friday, the NCOC directed the organisers to ensure compliance with the Covid-19 SOPs, including maintaining social distancing, mask-wearing, and thermal screening of the participants while holding mass gatherings.

1. Masks, hand sanitizers, and a facility to wash hands should be made available at entrances, it said.
2. It will be mandatory for Zakirs and participants of majalis to be vaccinated.
3. Children and people over 65 should attend majalis through video-link, the NCOC said.
4. Volunteers and scouts should be used to ensure the implementation of covid-19 SOPs.
5. Majalis should not be held for extended hours.
6. Floors should be cleaned with Chlorine before and after the majalis.
7. Food should preferably be distributed in disposable packs.