MUSCAT: As part of combating COVID-19, a number of non-Muslim places of worship in Oman including temples and churches will be closed for an indefinite period, The Arabian Stories (TAS) has learnt.

In a statement issued by the Hindu Temple management, both temples in the country will be closed from April 3 until further notice. “We are advised by the Ministry of Endowment and Religious Affairs to suspend the events and activities in both the Temples from today evening , 3rd April 2021 until further notice, to preserve the safety of those in charge and the visitors. Further please note that the gates of both the Temples will be closed,” the statement from the management said.

Meanwhile, Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church also said its churches will be closed until further notice. “Pursuant to the new directives communicated to us from the Supreme Committee, to refrain from holding any public gatherings in line with national efforts to combat COVID19. We the Catholic Churches, shall comply with the directives of the Government of Oman. The Church will remain closed beginning from today 03rd April2021 till further notice,” the church said in a statement issued on Saturday.

The church also advised worshippers to avoid “any group prayer meetings in private or public places including homes and rented halls, encouraging them to stay at home and pray with their family members.”

In the last one month, Oman has seen a surge in the number of new infections reported daily. The total COVID-19 has crossed over 160,000 including 1,678 deaths.