As Covid Cases Rise, Uttar Pradesh Sounds Alert Over Holi Celebrations

UP has also said that people travelling from states seeing a surge in Covid cases - such as Maharashtra, Punjab and national capital Delhi - will be tested for the virus

Worried over an increase in coronavirus cases as Holi nears, and large numbers of migrant workers return home to celebrate the festival, the Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday banned processions or gatherings in public spaces without prior permission. Those above 60 years and below 10 - age groups experts say are most vulnerable to the virus - will not be allowed at all. #WATCH 'Laddu Mar Holi' celebrated at Barsana's Shri Radha Rani Temple, earlier today pic.twitter.com/L7W3groaBH The UP Chief Secretary wrote to field officers across the state, directing them to ensure people comply with all Covid protocols, including wearing face masks and maintaining social distance. The Chief Secretary also directed that people travelling to UP from states experiencing a surge in Covid cases - such as Maharashtra, Punjab and national capital Delhi - be tested for the virus. "Cases are rising and we are the cusp of a second wave. There is a lot of crowding in Mathura and Vrindavan because of Holi and people are not following protocols. I urge everyone to mask up," Dr Rajeev Gupta, the Additional Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Mathura district, said.