Omicron effect: BMC bans New Year celebration parties, gatherings in closed or open spaces in Mumbai

The order has come into effect from midnight of December 25 and will remain in force till the next directive.

Mumbai: In view of the spike in coronavirus cases and the growing threat of the Omicron variant, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has banned New Year celebration programmes and gatherings in any closed or open areas in the city.

Mumbai municipal commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal issued an order to this effect late Friday evening.

"There shall be no gathering or celebration of New Year in any closed or open areas under the BMC jurisdiction," the order said.