Pune: Though Pune city has witnessed a decline in new COVID-19 cases, 125 parks and gardens will not be operational till the further notice. Also, those gardens which are been allowed to reopen has banned all Christmas and New Year parties.

December is generally considered as a party month. Many people visit gardens and parks to celebrate Christmas and New Year parties, however, the officials from the administration has decided to ban mass gatherings here.

According to health experts, November and December could be the worst months where COVID-19 cases would have gone up. The spread of COVID-19 infection has curtailed in recent days. Therefore some Puneities are requesting the administration to reopen the gardens. However, the garden department of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) thinks that children and elderly who are restricted to visit gardens are still violating the rules. Thus, the administration thinks that all gardens will not be reopened soon.

From the past 10 months, gardens and parks are closed in Pune city. There is ongoing work of repair and maintenance too, thus the garden department of the PMC has made clear that some gardens may be reopened by January 15.

Ashok Ghorpade, Chief Garden Superintendent of Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) said, “There are some restrictions on the entry of citizens visiting the park. Some people are still violating COVID-19 safety protocols such as wearing masks and flouting physical distancing. Thus, it is decided that the parks will be completely closed for a few more days.”