No gatherings or meetings are allowed before and after prayers at mosques or any places of worship, the religious affairs ministry has said.

In an emergency circular that took effect yesterday, the ministry said it made the decision to help curb the surge in Covid-19 infections across the country.

About Tarabi prayers at mosques during Ramadan, it said the prayers have to be offered maintaining social distancing and in line with other health safety rules.

Earlier on April 5, the ministry had issued a circular saying people would not be allowed to have iftar and sehri at mosques during the holy month.

In yesterday's circular, it mentioned that soap, water, hand-washing facilities and sanitizers should be made available at the entrance of all mosques, and everyone must wear a facemask. Social distancing must be ensured during prayers.

People should go to mosques after performing ablutions and offering Sunnah prayers at home, it said.

The circular further said the entire mosque should be cleaned with disinfectants before prayers, and every worshipper should bring a prayer mat with him.

Children, the elderly and those attending the sick should refrain from saying prayers in congregation, mentioned the circular.

Khatibs, imams and members of mosque management committees have been asked to implement these directives.

The administration and law enforcement agencies will take action against violators of the directives, it added.