Patna: Patna is preparing for one of its most significant cultural events, Chhath Puja, with the municipal administration leaving no stone unturned to ensure devotees have a safe and comfortable experience. The Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has mobilised teams to clean, repair, decorate, and secure 91 Ganga ghats and 62 ponds across the city. Officials are working on a war footing to create an environment that is both hygienic and spiritually uplifting for the thousands of devotees expected to participate.
The administration has allocated over Rs13.91 crore (approximately $1.7 million) this year to cover an extensive range of preparations, including cleaning, repair, lighting, decoration, and security. Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena, along with other senior officials and engineers, conducted on-foot inspections of the ghats to personally assess the progress and direct contractors to accelerate work while maintaining high-quality standards.
One of the main challenges this year is the rising water level of the Ganges, which could pose risks to devotees. In response, the PMC has implemented extensive safety measures, including security fencing, railings, warning signs, and monitoring of water levels at all ghats. Special teams will also ensure timely sanitation and waterlogging control, while CCTV cameras and barricades will be installed to enhance security.
Lighting is also being upgraded to enhance both safety and the festive ambience. Forty-nine high-mast lights have been installed from Digha to Damrai Ghat, and around 620 streetlights along key routes are being inspected and repaired. All approach roads to the ghats will be illuminated, with dedicated teams overseeing the maintenance to ensure a bright and secure environment. The Municipal Commissioner emphasised that the priority of all officials should be to prevent inconvenience to devotees and pilgrims, reflecting the city’s commitment to a smooth and memorable Chhath celebration.
