ISLAMABAD: National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday issued COVID-19 guidelines for the safe conduct of Muharram-ul-Haram in the country. According to NCOC guidelines, the emphasis is primarily on following COVID-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) during Majalis and processions, such as wearing masks and having sanitizer on hand and using it. The vaccination of Zakirs and Majalis participants will be required, and the participation of children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups will be prohibited. The NCOC suggested that the location for the Majalis should be open, roomy, and equipped with adequate ventilation. During Majalis and processions, masks must be worn, and social distance must be maintained. The organizing committees will make sure that masks, sanitizers, and hand-washing facilities are available at the entrance. The capacity of the venues will be ascertained according to social distancing protocols and the number of participants exceeding the established capacity may not be permitted. Strict regulation at the entry and exit points will be ensured for avoiding overcrowding at the time of arrival and dispersal from the venue. The centre also recommended that Majalis where SOPs cannot be effectively implemented such as homes and private gatherings may be discouraged. It also proposed that the elderly above 65 years, children and co-morbid may be sensitized to attend Majalis at home through live streaming. The number of participants or Azadars will be kept reasonable while lengthy Majalis and processions should be avoided and reducing the timings. As per SOPs, the cleaning or washing of the floor with chlorine before and after the Majalis is also necessary besides displaying COVID-19 SOPs and precautions at prominent places while SOPs compliance will be ensured by employing volunteer scouts. The guidelines preferred arrangements of ‘nazro niaz’ in spacious and ventilated places with emphasis on the use of disposable utensils particularly with pre-packed boxes for distribution. The NCOC also urged avoiding overcrowding at food distribution points besides handshake and embracing. The concerned federal and provincial departments will make necessary arrangements to disseminate messages of religious clerics for uniform implementation of SOPs or guidelines proposed by NCOC besides sharing strict enforcement of SOPs by the civil administration.