Patna: A team of senior district officials led by Patna Divisional Commissioner Animesh Kumar Parashar conducted an extensive three-hour inspection of 28 major Chhath ghats across the city on Tuesday morning to assess preparedness for Chhath Mahaparva 2025. The inspection, which began at 6:30 a.m., covered a stretch of approximately seven kilometres from Kali Ghat to Gai Ghat, focusing on ensuring convenience and safety for devotees.
Divisional Commissioner Parashar, accompanied by the District Magistrate, Senior Superintendent of Police, and Municipal Commissioner, instructed that crowd management, traffic flow, and security arrangements be flawless. He emphasised the need for coordination between departments and continuous engagement with stakeholders to ensure a safe and comfortable festival experience.
Rising Ganga Levels Prompt Vigilance
Officials noted that while the Ganga’s water level remains higher than last year, it has been declining steadily. The Water Resources Department reported a 19 cm (7.5 inches) drop at Gandhi Ghat in the past 24 hours. The level is expected to stabilise between 45 and 46 metres during the festival — around one metre higher than the 44.64 metres recorded during last year’s Chhath on November 7.
Keeping this in mind, Parashar directed teams to prioritise preparations at vulnerable locations. Special attention was given to cleaning operations, with instructions to remove accumulated mud and slush from ghat steps. Dangerous ghats will be barricaded and marked with red cloth, while clear signage — including ghat names and control room numbers — will be installed for easy navigation.
Comprehensive Safety Measures
The administration announced a series of safety initiatives:
- Installation of CCTVs, watchtowers, and control rooms at major ghats.
- Deployment of NDRF, SDRF, divers, boatmen, and river ambulances.
- Activation of medical teams and river patrols.
- Special traffic and parking management plans at sensitive points.
- Strict enforcement of no-entry zones and obstruction-free access routes.
Officials also plan to conduct mock cleaning drills after evening aarti ceremonies to ensure readiness for large gatherings.
Sector-Wise Monitoring and Accountability
At Baharwa Ghat, Parashar reviewed inspection reports with sector officials overseeing 109 ghats across 21 sectors, where preparations are ongoing round the clock. The Commissioner expressed satisfaction with progress so far but took note of lapses in attendance. He ordered disciplinary action against the District Agriculture Officer, who was absent despite being assigned as a sector officer.
Focus on Timely Completion
During the inspection, the Commissioner observed that several ghats — including Rani Ghat, Ghagha Ghat, Roshan Ghat, Krishna Ghat, Hanuman Ghat, and Chaudhary Tola Ghat — had accumulated silt as the water receded northward. The Municipal Corporation has been tasked with immediate clearance of mud and debris.
Parashar commended the joint efforts of the district administration, police, and Municipal Corporation, noting that teams are working “in camp mode” to ensure every safety measure is completed on time. He also directed the Building Construction Department to adhere strictly to barricading safety standards, which are expected to be in place by Diwali.
“Excellent preparations are underway at all ghats. Every task is being executed with a focus on safety, considering the changing river conditions,” Parashar said.
The Chhath Mahaparva, one of Bihar’s most significant festivals, will be celebrated approximately 10 days earlier than last year, making the current phase of inspection crucial as water levels continue to recede.
