Gandhinagar: No decision has been taken so far regarding upcoming Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad, said minister of state for Home, Pradipsinh Jadeja today while speaking with media persons.

‘Ahmedabad and other places in Gujarat as per convention witness Rath Yatras. Rath Yatra route in Ahmedabad had over 1600 Covid19 positive cases. Thanks to Government’s constant efforts and also due to success of maintaining social distancing, we achieved success in scaling the numbers of Covid19 cases down. We also prevented deaths. If Rath Yatra is organized, social distance will be difficult to maintain. Ahmedabad has highest Covid19 cases in the State and there are as many as 25 containment zones. If social distancing is compromised, the success we have achieved will be affected and there could be a situation of increase in Covid19 positive cases. The State government, after studying the entire situation will take a decision. We don’t want to ruin our success achieved so far to reverse due to Rath Yatra,’ Jadeja said.

Rath Yatra procession if permitted will be out on roads on June 23. In the wake of Covid-19 situation, there’s a suspense, whether the government will permit it or not. If permitted whether the conventional route will be taken or shortest possible route will be chosen. Whether the yatra will go to Saraspur temple far away or any alternative temple located near Jagannath Mandir will be chosen as mid point of yatra.

As per reports, State police department has also expressed concern that in case of crowding of police for Rath Yatra bandobast, police men may attract Covid infection.

DeshGujarat