Bhubaneswar, Oct. 20 -- Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday appealed the people of the State not to lower guard against COVID-19 as there are chances of rise in the number of infections particularly during the upcoming winter and festive season.

With the festivities round the corner, Patnaik urged people not to congregate at public places and observe Durga Puja and Diwali in their respective homes.

"It was observed that number of COVID-19 cases shot up by almost three times in Kerala after the Onam festival. Experts say that Coronavirus will assume serious proportions during the winter. As Durga Puja and Diwali are approaching, I urge people not to congregate in public places and stay at home, use masks and main...