Marriage halls across Pakistan to close by 10pm: NCOC issues SOPs

ISLAMABAD: The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) on Friday issued guidelines for and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for marriage halls, saying that they will have to close by 10pm and that only a maximum number of 300 people can be allowed indoors.

As the winter seasons approaches, Pakistani health experts have warned that  second, and deadlier wave, of the novel coronavirus can affect the country.

The NCOC said it had taken the decision after considerable  “in-depth deliberations” and contacted provinces for “stricter implementation” of the protocols.

The statement said that if marriage halls are found to be in violation of the SOPs then they will be closed off at a “specified time” and a heavy fine will also be imposed. It further said that the closure of SOPs-defying marriage halls will come into effect two weeks after the notices are served so people get “sufficient time” to search for alternate venues.

Under the new guidelines, apart from the limits imposed on the capacities, the events can only be held for two hours and must end by 10pm.

In the case of indoor events, only 300 people can be allowed but in the case of outdoor events, a limit of 500 guests can be allowed for the event.