The Maharashtra government on Friday announced the reopening of all religious places from October 7 — which is the first day of Navratri — in the state with COVID-19 protocols, a move that comes amid indication that the second wave of the pandemic is ebbing.

Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, who made the statement, urged people not to drop their guard and continue COVID-19-appropriate behaviour in view of a possible third wave of the pandemic. “Although the number of COVID-19 patients is currently declining, we need to be more careful. Even if religious places are opened to devotees, the rules for health safety must be followed. Face mask, keeping a safe distance, disinfectant must be adhered to. The management of religious places will be responsible for implementation of such measures,” said Thackeray in the statement on Friday night. Thackeray said, “The Maharashtra government has prepared itself for a third wave, but with all precautions, the state is allowing relaxations in various activities.”