Coronavirus: Gathering of 20 or more people barred in Haryana

The Haryana government on Friday decided to impose Section 144 of the CrPC in urban and rural areas of the state which restricts the gathering of 20 or more people at one place, a government statement said.

The decision was taken as a precautionary measure to check the spread of coronavirus, it added.

However, the permissible gathering in Gurgaon and Faridabad will be restricted to five persons only, it further said.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar along with deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala and Health Minister Anil Vij reviewed steps being taken to check the spread of the deadly infection here, it said.

It was decided at the meeting that after schools and colleges, coaching centres in the state too will remain closed till March March 31, it said.

Khattar also urged the government employees to remain alert and available round the clock stressing that they have to play a vital role in tackling the pandemic.

"The role of employees in this situation should help to create awareness among people to take precautions and maintain social distancing," said Khattar.

He directed the concerned officers to ensure the availability of adequate stock of essential commodities so that there is no shortage.

It was also decided that the respective General Managers of Haryana Roadways in the districts would be authorised to take decisions regarding reducing the frequency of intra-state and inter-state public transport depending on the number of passengers on day to day basis.

Though the frequency of buses could be reduced by up to 40 per cent, they would also make sure that passengers do not suffer, the statement said, adding that the city bus service in Gurgaon shall be curtailed till further orders.

The police department will set up quarantine facilities and isolation wards and dry ration will be distributed to the beneficiaries of Anganwadis at their doorstep, it said.