2022 Celebration "Restriction and Precaution" in the Globe: Amid Omicron Scare

The Govt. of various affected countries have urged people to avoid large gatherings

The end of the year is always a way to new beginnings! Whether 2021 is a worthy year or not but, everyone in the globe gets excited to look forward to the rising light of the upcoming year 2022.

Although, New Year celebrations historically have been a time to unwind and welcome the future with open arms. After two years of the pandemic, with its periodic waves that caused tremendous pain across the globe, still, hope is alive. Yet, the COVID-19 seems to have continued, riding the Omicron variant that is frighteningly virulent even if less fatal – for now. The result: New Year celebrations globally are likely to be muted under the COVID-19 shadow.

Amid the Omicron scare, the Govt. of various affected countries have urged people to avoid large gatherings and keep celebrations restricted to families and close friends as they tighten the loose ends in their health infrastructure. Travel restrictions and mask mandates are back as many cities move either to ban or pare down New Year's Eve events.

Below are the steps were taken by various countries to combat Omicron during the festive season.

India: 

Taking notes from the Indian Govt., urged their citizens to stay as safe as possible. The Delhi Govt. has declared a lockdown restriction as ''Yellow alert" has been imposed in the national capital. It states that night curfew is back, offices will open with 50 per cent of staff and curbs are back on weddings and other social and religious gatherings. Last week, the government banned all gatherings to celebrate Christmas and New Year.

Several states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, too, have announced several restrictions.

United States: 

The US Govt. has cancelled many events to fight against the new variant. The annual celebration in Times Square in New York has been allowed with participation capped at 15,000. Attendees will have to wear masks and show proof of full vaccination. Other events will stream online. 

United Kingdom: 

Several parts of the United Kingdom – Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – have put limits on social gatherings and mass events after England reported a new high of Covid cases on Christmas Day. PM Boris Johnson has said, "no" new curbs will be imposed before 2022, allowing nightclubs and pubs to open for New Year's Eve celebrations.

Europe: 

Europe got received a major hit by the new variant. This led to the ban of several celebrations in the states and cities of Europe. Prime Minister Jean Castex has announced that large public parties would be banned on New Year's Eve. The French capital Paris has cancelled major celebrations, which would have included fireworks over the Champs-Elysees.

Japan: 

Tokyo holds one of the biggest New Year's Eve celebrations in the world. However, like last year, the event at Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo has been cancelled.

Thailand: 

Bangkok will allow celebrations but with some riders. Only open-air venues have been allowed to host guests. Those attending these events must be fully vaccinated and registered to attend as no walk-ins will be allowed.