Bhubaneswar, Jan. 10 -- With the steep rise in Covid-19 infections and detection of new Omicron variant cases in the State, the Bhadrak district administration has declared the closure of all religious and social places like temples, mosques, churches and gurudwaras, in order to contain the spread of the virus.

In an order issued by the District Collector on Sunday, the district administration imposed the restriction with effect from January 10 (1 am) till January 31 (12 PM).

Meanwhile, Section 144 has been clamped at the Baba Akhandalamani Temple in the district in compliance with the orders issued by the district administration. However, the rituals of the diety are underway amid strict adherence to Covid protocols.

As per the order,...