Patna: Traffic arrangements in Patna have been modified today as the district administration braces for a large turnout of devotees taking a holy dip in the Ganga on the occasion of Magh Purnima.
Vehicular movement has been prohibited on the stretch from Kargil Chowk to Gaighat, while entry of vehicles on Ashok Rajpath between these points has been restricted. The curbs are in effect from 3 am to 3 pm, or until traffic conditions return to normal.
Devotees visiting Patipul Ghat, Digha Ghat, Shiva Ghat and Minar Ghat have been directed to park vehicles at designated parking zones near the ghats and proceed on foot. Vehicles heading towards Collectorate Ghat and Mahendru Ghat are being diverted from the JP Ganga Path intersection near the commissioner’s office, using the underpass and parking on the western side.
Those approaching from Bari Path are being allowed to enter Ashok Rajpath only via Khajanchi Road. Additional parking facilities have been arranged at the Patna College grounds.
Buses travelling towards Danapur or Khagaul via Patna Junction, GPO and Nehru Path are not stopping at Kargil Chowk and are instead being parked inside Gate No. 10 of Gandhi Maidan. Entry of heavy goods vehicles into the city remains prohibited until 11 am.
Emergency services including fire engines, ambulances and vehicles carrying patients have been exempted from restrictions.
As a safety measure, all boat operations on the Ganga and Son rivers have been suspended today. Only boats deployed for official duties are permitted. Magistrates, police officers, special mobile teams and river patrol units have been deployed for crowd management and security.
Divers, motorboats and State Disaster Response Force teams are stationed at the ghats. Devotees can contact the district control room or dial 112 in case of emergencies.
