Patna: Ahead of the Chhath Puja celebrations, Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched an extensive cleanliness and safety drive across 91 Ganga ghats and 62 ponds in the city. On Sunday, acting on the directions of Divisional Commissioner Animesh Kumar Parashar, executive officers and engineers conducted a detailed inspection from Digha to Patna City to assess preparations and review safety measures.
The civic body has earmarked Rs 13.91 crore for the cleaning, repair, construction, and beautification of ghats, ensuring a safe environment for thousands of devotees who gather to offer prayers to the Sun God during the four-day festival.
Officials said the rising water level of the Ganga this season poses a significant challenge. To mitigate risks, special emphasis is being laid on installing safety railings, warning signs, and fencing at all ghats. Teams of engineers and contractors have been instructed to work on a “war footing” to ensure timely completion.
“Inspection of water levels at all ghats has been carried out, and instructions have been given to strengthen safety and sanitation measures,” an official from the Municipal Corporation said.
The administration is also prioritizing adequate lighting arrangements at ghats and nearby areas. A survey and repair of 49 high-mast lights and 620 streetlights have begun along the stretch from Digha to Damrai Ghat, with additional teams tasked with ensuring illumination along the approach roads.
“Every possible measure is being taken to provide devotees with a clean, safe, and well-lit environment,” Commissioner Animesh Parashar stated during the inspection.
The preparations mark the beginning of one of Bihar’s most elaborate civic operations, as Patna readies itself for the annual Chhath Puja, a festival deeply rooted in the state’s cultural and spiritual identity.
