How India ushered in 2022 amid Omicron surge

From curfews to restrictions on movements, state governments have become cautious with New Year’s Eve celebrations around the corner.

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   With India witnessing a surge in Covid cases, states across the country are likely to observe more muted new years celebrations. In this image from Pune, a group of youngsters are seen purchasing New Years cards and chocolates.

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   While the Maharashtra government has not completely banned New Year celebrations, it has imposed several restrictions. Only 50 per cent attendance is allowed at events in confined spaces, while the limit is capped at 25 per cent for open areas.

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   The Maharashtra government has issued detailed guidelines to ensure low-key celebrations. The circular reiterates the state government’s previous order that bans the assembly of five or more persons from 9 pm to 5 am. The rules also prohibit organising any kind of religious/cultural program on the occasion of New Year and also disallows fireworks.

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   A deserted 'Bandra Wonderland' in Mumbai's Bandra reclamation after new restrictions were imposed by the administration due to a rise in Covid cases. Section 144 has been imposed in the city till January 7. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has banned any kind of New Year celebrations – inside or in open spaces — in Mumbai.

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   In this image, students of Mumbai's Gurukul Art school pose with their art creation which highlights the major events that took place in 2021.

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   In Kolkata, a crowd was seen at Newmarket and Park Street.

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   Youngsters pose for photographs on New Year's eve in Agra. (PTI)

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   In Mumbai, police officials were seen vacating the area around Gateway of India amid restrictions imposed due to rising numbers of Covid-19 cases.

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   Medical staff of M S Ramaiah hospital wearing PPE and gloves hold placards with a message on New Year's eve amid concern over rising Omicron cases, in Bengaluru. (PTI)

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   Night curfew at Brigade Road ahead of new year celebration in the wake of Omicron threat, in Bengaluru. (Express photo by Jithendra)

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   Night curfew at Residency Road ahead of new year celebration in the wake of Omicron threat, in Bengaluru. (Express photo by Jithendra)

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   Tourists pose for photographs as they stand near a message 'Happy New Year 2022' painted on snow near a ski resort in Gulmarg. (PTI)

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   Tourists form a human chain to welcome New Year 2022 in Shimla.

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   A kitemaker flies a kite on the eve of the New Year celebrations on the outskirts of Amritsar. (PTI)

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   Youngsters pose for photographs on New Year's eve in Thane.

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   People celebrate New Year's Eve on the streets of Pune.

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