A day after the Tamil Nadu government banned New Year revelries as a precautionary measure against the pandemic, the Puducherry government said celebrations would be allowed in open spaces and on the beach.

Christmas, New Year revelry, Sani Peyarchi festival and Pongal celebrations would be permitted with strict adherence to COVID-19 safety norms and guidelines of the government, Chief Minister V Narayanasamy said.

He made the announcement after chairing a State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) meeting, and said that no one could ban these celebrations and the only thing that needed to be checked was physical distancing and wearing of masks during the events. He said adequate arrangements, including, police patrol, would in place and that public meetings in open place could also be conducted. Restrictions were in place for indoor meetings only, he added. Narayanasamy further said some issues have been raised in connection with New Year celebrations in hotels, but they will be sorted out through a discussion with hotel owners.

At the SDMA meeting, cold chain and logistic arrangements and walkin refrigeration for COVID vaccine were discussed. Funds from the CM’s COVID relief fund would be utilised for these facilities and also for installation of pressure swing absorption oxygen concentrator plant at six places at a cost of Rs 70 lakh 

Chief Minister V Narayanasamy said that since all other festivals are being permitted with COVID restrictions, Sani Peyarchi, which falls on December 27, will also be observed as Hindus from different states will throng the Tirunallar temple in Karaikal region. However, the administration will have norms in place. The Collector had already issued orders that the festival be celebrated adhering to COVID guidelines and devotees who booked tickets in advance would only be allowed. Pilgrims who wish to visit the temple during weekends would have to register on the temple’s website.