Riga, August 14, LETA. The situation both in the basilica and in Aglona itself is currently calm, Juris Butēvics, the chairman of Aglona district council (Graveri parish list), admitted to LETA.
It is not known to the locals how many pilgrims and worshipers came to the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, but the people at the basilica are controlled by the State Police. Law enforcement officers are at the entrance gate, as well as at the holy spring and elsewhere.
The chairman of the council observed that several visitors’ cars were parked in the meadow, possibly a pilgrim’s tent was set up in the territory of the private house. There are no more people in Aglona itself than usual on weekends. Butevich predicted a larger number of interested people in the evening.
“There is no food, no trade, all the fuss, and the interest of some people has greatly waned, only the true worshipers have remained,” Butevics admitted.
The information provided by the municipality shows that more than 200 soldiers and guards of the 3rd Latgale Brigade of the National Guard will provide support in the implementation of security measures during the celebration of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. By supporting the police in maintaining public order, they will welcome visitors at the entrance to the Aglona Basilica and will ensure that visitors are admitted by invitation, as well as overseeing order in the sectors. Guardians and soldiers will also be involved in patrols and guarding the basilica area at night.
It has already been reported that up to 3,000 people will be able to gather at the Aglona Basilica tonight. The sacred area will be divided into sectors from 7 pm to ensure distance between people.
Visitors to the festival must keep a distance of at least two meters, and people are encouraged not to form queues, nor to crowd outside the Aglona Basilica area, such as in the parking lots and at the gates of Sacred Square. Everyone must follow the precautions set by the state and the organizers of the festival, including avoiding the use of shared items, and wash your hands often and thoroughly.
The regulation of the flow of people both before, during and after the festive services, as well as the observance and control of public safety and epidemiological requirements will be especially strengthened by the representatives of the responsible institutions.
As a result of the Covid-19 containment measures, parking facilities in the village of Aglona will be limited and stopping and standing in the village area may be denied in situations where the number of visitors exceeds the permissible level due to epidemiological risks.
During the festival, there will be no trade or catering services in the territory of the Aglona shrine.
Doctors will be on duty in the territory of the basilica during the festival. Assistance will be provided at first aid points in a yellow medical tent and ambulance crew cars.
Visitors to the festival are invited to be careful near fire and water, choose clothing suitable for the weather. The headgear protects against overheating and heat stroke in steam, as well as regular drinking before thirst appears, the Ministry of Justice noted.
People suffering from a chronic illness, such as cardiovascular disease, should take special care of their health during the holidays, and they should follow a health-appropriate regimen and take the medication they need. If the illness is characterized by impaired consciousness, a note should be carried in the pocket, indicating the name, surname, illness, as well as the telephone number of the relative. In an emergency, this information makes it easier for doctors to help.
The festival will also be broadcast by the media, so citizens are encouraged to watch it remotely.
Anyone who has symptoms of a respiratory infectious disease or who has doubts about their health is encouraged to stay at home and attend services remotely, thus taking care of themselves and others.
If signs of a respiratory infection appear, a face mask or mouth and nose mask should be worn as there is a risk of infecting other people. In such cases, residents are encouraged to seek medical attention at the shrine and contact their family doctor.
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