UAE authorities have relaxed COVID-19 restrictions as devotees return to Gurudarbar Sindhi Temple in Bur Dubai. Speaking about the recent surge in devotees, Gopal Kookani, the temple's general manager, noted that things are getting back to normal.

The temple has also extended its operating hours which facilitated the return to pre-pandemic levels. According to the rules of the Community Development Authority, the temple is allowed to open from 6 am to noon and 5 pm to 9 pm every day. This is an increase in the duration from the previously-allowed six hours.

Furthermore, despite Dubai's recent easing of restrictions on social distancing rules, the temple continues to follow the 1.5-metre distancing rule between worshippers to prevent crowding at the premise.

“If we go for a half a metre less, the complacency sets in. So, it’s better to adhere to the 1.5-metre rule," Kookani added.

The temple has also installed thermal cameras and multiple hand sanitiser stations at the entrance and exit to ensure enhanced safety of devotees. Temple officials are also sanitising the premise twice a day.

“Over the last six to eight months, people are more concerned about this. So, that’s a good sign,” said Kookani.

He further hailed the community for showing adherence to safety norms.

On Tuesday, the UAE has eased several capacity and social distancing restrictions amid declining Omicron-driven Coronavirus cases in the country since January.

As per the updated rules, social distancing in mosques, churches and other places of worship can be decreased to one metre. The authority further affirmed that the COVID-19 situation would be monitored closely throughout February. In addition, the authorities would implement appropriate precautionary measures to limit the virus cases and enhance the safety of all worshippers.

SOURCE: Khaleej Times

LINK: https://www.khaleejtimes.com/coronavirus/covid-19-dubais-hindu-temple-limping-back-to-pre-pandemic-normal