The National Command and Operation Centre has issued guidelines to contain spread of COVID-19 during the holy month of Ramadan.

According to a press release, 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 Masajid and the Imambargahs to hold  Taraweeh prayer in the yards of Masajid and Imambargahs.

It further said that if during Ramadan, the government feels that these precautionary measures are not being observed or the number of affectees has risen to a dangerous level then the government will revise its policy.

Furthermore, the government has also the right to change the orders and policy regarding severely affected specific areas.

As per guidelines, carpet or rugs will not be used in Masajid and Imambargahs and prayers will be offered on the bare floors.

It said that before and after the prayers, people should avoid gathering in crowds while if there is a courtyard in Masajid and Imambargahs, prayers will be offered there and not inside the halls.

Similarly, citizens older than 50 years, adolescent children, and those suffering from flu, cough, etc should avoid to come to Mosques or Imambargahs for prayers and Taraweeh prayers. They are advised to offer their prayers at homes.

The floors of the Mosques and Imambargahs 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.

The Forum asked the citizens to avoid offering prayer on the roads and footpaths. It also barred citizens to hold ablution (Wuzu) in the Mosques, adding that they should do Wuzu at their homes.