NEW DELHI, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in India will impose a night curfew in prominent places across the country in view of new year celebrations amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, state-run broadcaster All India Radio (AIR) said Thursday.

In this picture taken on December 1, 2020 people walk along a deserted street after a curfew was imposed as a preventive measure against the Covid-19 coronavirus, in Amritsar. (Photo: AFP)

The step has been taken to prevent the assembling of people and thereby prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In the national capital New Delhi, a night curfew will be imposed to check the gatherings, congregations and public celebrations of New Year.

The assembling of more than five persons at public places as well as New Year celebratory events and congregations at public places will not be permitted from 11:00 p.m. (local time) on Thursday to 6:00 a.m. on Friday and also from 11:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, the broadcaster said.

The decision has been taken in view of the threat posed by the mutant COVID-19 strain and the detection of 25 such cases in the country.

However, as per the government order, there will be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of persons and goods during the curfew period.

An order issued by the local government in Delhi said all district magistrates of Delhi and senior police officials should ensure strict compliance of the order.

Reports said similar restrictions to prevent new year gatherings have also been imposed in Karnataka, Rajasthan and Maharashtra.