Restrictions to be Imposed on Visiting Cemeteries in Georgian Cities
Within the framework of the state of emergency, restrictions on visiting cemeteries in Georgian cities will be imposed for 10 days from April 17, Advisor to the Prime Minister Irakli Chikovani announced at a briefing at the governmental administration last night.
However, he did not specify in particular what kind of restrictions will be imposed during the mentioned period.
"We would like to once again remind the citizens that the Georgian government calls on you to stay at home and not break the law," he emphasized.
"COVID-19 is a global challenge and a terrible crisis for the entire world. So far, we have been able to slow down the spread of the virus. Of course, this is all due to the joint efforts of our doctors, public health workers, police officers, customs officers, border servicemen, and all those who are at the forefront of the fight against this invisible enemy. As you know, cases of internal transmission are on the rise already in Georgia as well; clusters are expanding significantly and the number of possible cases is growing more and more. The country lives under a state of emergency, a curfew is in force, and restrictions are getting tougher and tougher. Today, every one of us has a special responsibility to each other and to our country. It is the duty of each and every one of us to uphold the law and to observe the restrictions that are in place solely for the purpose of protecting the health and the lives of our citizens," the prime minister's advisor stated.
Traditionally, the day after Easter, Georgians bring food and wine to cemeteries and feast near the graves of their loved ones. Georgians usually light a candle at the gravestone and roll the red eggs across the grave. The cracking of eggs symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. However, it seems that this year, the above tradition will be restricted due to the fears of spreading coronavirus (COVID-19).
By Ana Dumbadze