The district administration on Thursday met organisers of Durga Pujas in Bokaro to ensure a safe and peaceful festival amid the pandemic.

It was decided that the festival would be celebrated while strictly observing Covid-19 guidelines.

Although the number of coronavirus cases has declined, there are still 373 active cases in the district. Data shows that 4,877 people in the district have been infected with the coronavirus since the pandemic started. Of them, 4,462 have recovered while 42 died.

Deputy commissioner Rajesh Singh said organisers would take the necessary steps to ensure there is no crowding during the festival. No more than seven people will be allowed in a pandal at a time.

Singh said social distancing, the use of masks and sanitisation were mandatory. Legal action will be taken against those organisers found defaulting. “A case will be filed against the chairman and secretary of the Durga Puja pandal concerned under Sections 51-60 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code and other relevant sections,” said Singh.

The puja should be organised in small pandals, the rules say. The construction of the pandal will not be based on any theme. Any type of decorative lighting is forbidden. The construction of a welcome gate or archway will not be allowed, the rules add.

According to the rules, the entire area of the puja pandal will have to be ventilated, except for the idol. The idol of Durga will be 4 feet or less. No fair will be organised during the festival. Food stalls near pandals are prohibited.