The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Tuesday released new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the public to abide by on Eid-ul-Azha amid a sharp increase in Covid-19 cases.
Protocols for Eid-ul-Azha Prayers:
- Eid-ul-Azha prayers should be conducted in open spaces under the strict rules of Covid-19.
- Two to Three Eid prayers should be arranged at one venue.
- Eid prayer sermons should be kept short.
- A face mask is compulsory at the place of prayer.
- The venue should have multiple entrances and exits.
- The availability of hand sanitisers at the point of entry must be ensured by venue organisers.
- Social distance protocols should be ensured by properly marking the distance.
- Efforts should be made to prevent people from greeting and shaking hands after prayers.
Protocols for Qurbani:
- Efforts will be made to encourage and promote central/collective sacrifice ensuring compliance with Covid-19 rules on wearing masks, social distance, and avoiding large crowds.
- The provinces will launch awareness campaigns to inform the public about the possible spread of Covid-19 during meat distribution, so caution should be exercised in the handling/distribution of meat.
- A limited number of people will be allowed at the collective sacrifice venue.