ISLAMABAD: The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has issued guidelines to contain spread of COVID-19 during the holy month of Ramazan.
According to a statement, these guidelines have been issued as per unanimous declaration from the president in consultation with Ulema for arrangements for Taraweeh prayers in mosques and imambargahs.
The NCOC directed the administrations of the mosques and imambargahs to hold Taraweeh prayer in the yards. As per guidelines, carpet or rugs will not be used in and prayers will be offered on the bare floors.
It further said that if during Ramazan, the government feels that these precautionary measures are not being observed or the number of victims has risen to a dangerous level then the government will revise its policy. The government has also the right to change the orders and policy regarding severely affected specific areas.
The statement further said that before and after the prayers, people should avoid gathering in crowds while if there is a courtyard, then prayers will be offered there and not inside the halls.
Citizens older than 50 years, children, and those suffering from flu, cough, etc should avoid to come to mosques for prayers. They are advised to offer their prayers at home.
It further instructed that floors of mosques should be cleaned with chlorine solution in water. The rows of the praying individuals should be aligned so that there is a distance of six feet between individuals.
The NCOC said that mosques and imambargahs should constitute committees consisting of responsible individuals who will ensure adherence to precautionary measures.
It urged citizens to avoid offering prayer on the roads and footpaths. It also barred hold ablution (wuzu) in mosques and instructed them to perform ablution at home.