Omicron effect: No New Year revelry

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Karnataka will give 2022 a somewhat subdued welcome, with the state government imposing fresh, statewide restrictions on New Year’s Eve celebrations, as Omicron cases spike rapidly in the country.

Clubs and restaurants are allowed to function at 50 percent seating capacity but special events like performances and DJs are not allowed.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said full vaccination is mandatory for people heading out on New Year’s Eve, as well as for all the staff working at restaurants and pubs. The staff are also required to take an RT-PCR.The curbs will be in place from December 30 to January 2. The customary gatherings at Brigade Road and M.G. Road will be banned this year. No mass revelry will be allowed anywhere in the state.

No Christmas restrictions

There are no restrictions on gatherings during Christmas. The Christmas mass can be held inside Churches, by adhering to Covid protocol.

The development comes after the Technical Advisory Committee recommended curbs including the imposition of Section 144 and a night curfew.