New Delhi, 16th September: Under Delhi’s phased reopening of economic activities amidst easing of the COVID-19 situation, fairs and exhibitions were allowed to return to the city from 16th September 2021 onwards. This followed an order by the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on 15th September, which allowed banquet halls to hold exhibitions and fairs.

Under the order, all stakeholders and organisers must follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued by the ministry of commerce and industry. According to the SOPs, venue providers will need to adopt strict measures, including separation of entries and exits for visitors, disinfection of halls, setting up permanent isolation centres and optimisation of waste disposal. Fair organisers must stagger operating hours, and a risk assessment is also required prior to the event.