Haridwar

The Haridwar administration has banned devotees from taking a holy dip in the Ganga river on Makar Sankranti on January 14 in view of rising Covid-19 cases.

"There will be a complete ban on Makar Sakranti celebration/holy dip on January 14 in view of a new variant of COVID-19 i.e., Omicron," the District Magistrate's order said.

Even, residents of the district will not be allowed in the area of 'Har ki Pauri' on the day of the festival.

"Night Curfew will also be imposed from 10 pm to 6 am in the district (on Friday)," the order said.

It warned that violators will face action under the Epidemic Disease Act 1897.

Makara Sankranti or Maghi, is a festival in the Hindu calendar, in reference to the deity Surya. The day marks the first day of the sun's transit into the Makara, marking the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days.