Patna: Authorities in Patna have completed preparations at 49 ghats ahead of Chaiti Chhath, with lighting, safety and civic arrangements being finalised as the festival begins with the traditional Nahay-Khaye ritual on Sunday.
Officials said all ghats, including those along the Ganga and various ponds, will be illuminated with decorative lighting by Sunday evening. Security has been tightened across locations, with personnel deployed to manage crowds and ensure safety.
Basic facilities such as barricading, watchtowers, checkpoints, parking areas, toilets, drinking water and changing rooms have been arranged for devotees. In the Pataliputra region, six major ghats have been developed extensively, with improved access through the JP Ganga Path and nearby underpasses.
However, recent rainfall has created muddy and slippery conditions on several approach roads, particularly along sandy riverbank routes. Civic authorities have deployed sandbags and teams to stabilise pathways and prevent inconvenience to worshippers.
Large ghats have also been prepared near JP Setu, where relatively stable ground conditions are expected to allow safer access into the water for rituals. Information about these sites has been made available through municipal channels to guide visitors.
In a safety measure, the district administration has banned boat operations on the Ganga between 22 and March 25. The order was issued by sub-divisional officer Kritika Mishra as part of broader crowd and risk management efforts.
With arrangements nearing completion, officials said they remain on alert for possible weather disruptions while ensuring that devotees can observe the festival smoothly.
