Amid rising cases of Covid-19 infections in Kathmandu valley in Nepal, the revered Pashupatinath temple will remain closed for people starting Friday, The Himalayan Times said. 

The temple trust said the move came after the issuance of health protocol by the government in line with the Infectious Disease Control Act, 1964 for the containment of COVID-19.

However, the regular worship would continue. The trust has also suspended all activities in the area in view of the rising cases. In the statement, they also apologize to people for the convenience caused due to the ban. 

Last year, too, the temple remained closed for at least nine months when the country witnessed the first wave of infections. 

The government has tightened measures in recent weeks to control the spread of the virus. The temple trust has also requested people to strictly follow health guidelines during funerals and other important rituals.