Chirag Gupta
Patna: The preparations for the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Gandhi Maidan, Patna, are in full swing. The District Magistrate Chandrashekhar Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police Avkash Kumar reviewed the ongoing arrangements and directed officials to ensure flawless execution. The grand event will showcase meticulous planning, efficient crowd management, and effective traffic control.
Gandhi Maidan Divided into Four Zones
The administration has divided the entire Gandhi Maidan into four zones, with Additional District Magistrates and Additional Superintendents of Police leading preparations in each zone. A multi-member sub-committee, chaired by the Deputy Development Commissioner, is working round the clock to oversee the arrangements. This committee includes officials from the Building Construction Department, Public Health Engineering Department, and Municipal Corporation, among others.
Enhanced Monitoring with CCTV Cameras
To ensure strict surveillance, 128 CCTV cameras have been installed at Gandhi Maidan and its surroundings. These include 61 fixed cameras, 22 pan-tilt-zoom cameras, and 45 analytical cameras. Monitoring will be conducted from a temporary control room, 18 watch towers, and the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) of Patna Smart City.
Lighting and Electrical Arrangements
Extensive lighting arrangements are being made at Gandhi Maidan. A total of 136 LED metal lights, 229 pole lights, and 20 high mast lights will illuminate the venue and its surroundings. Technicians and engineers from the Municipal Corporation, Building Construction Department, and Electricity Department have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted lighting during the event.
Infrastructure Improvements in Progress
The District Magistrate has instructed officials to expedite grass cutting, pit filling, tree pruning, and the repair of pathways at Gandhi Maidan. Entry gates are being repaired, while glow signboards and pathway lights are being made functional. A team of 48 workers from the Patna Municipal Corporation is actively cleaning the premises.
Seating and Barricading Arrangements
Barricading will be installed across the venue under the supervision of the Executive Engineer of the Building Construction Department. Seating arrangements are being planned according to protocol, with clear signage to assist attendees in finding their designated places.
Rehearsals for the Parade
Rehearsals for the joint parade began on January 11, 2025, with 19 contingents participating. The final rehearsal is scheduled for January 24, 2025. Adequate public facilities, including toilets and medical teams, are being arranged for the rehearsal days.
Drinking Water and Sanitation Facilities
The Public Health Engineering Department will deploy water tankers and water ATMs at the venue. Additionally, all hydrants and taps in Gandhi Maidan are being checked for functionality. Cleaning and drainage systems around the area are being managed by the Municipal Corporation.
Medical and Emergency Services
First aid centers will be set up across Gandhi Maidan, staffed with doctors and trained health workers. Ambulances, stretchers, and emergency equipment will be available at strategic locations. The Red Cross Society is also supporting these arrangements.
Firefighting and Traffic Management
Two fire brigades will be stationed at the venue, one at the parade ground and another at the Police Control Room. Traffic arrangements, including alternative routes and parking facilities, are being finalized by the Superintendent of Police, Traffic, and the District Transport Officer.
Tableaux and Cultural Displays
Fifteen government departments will display tableaux during the event, with the Deputy Development Commissioner overseeing arrangements. The height of the tableaux will not exceed 15 feet, as per government guidelines.
Community Participation and Flag Hoisting
Flag hoisting ceremonies will also be organized in all Mahadalit tolas, where the oldest member of the community will hoist the national flag. Vikas Mitras and schoolteachers from feeder areas will assist in the program’s execution.
The District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police emphasized the importance of inter-departmental coordination to ensure the success of the Republic Day celebrations.
